In the corridors of the U.S. House of Representatives, a scene that had repeated itself numerous times is finally transforming. Traditionally, Republicans have needed Democratic intervention to pass federal funding legislation and avoid a government shutdown. Now, this trend seems to be changing.
House Speaker Mike Johnson has successfully rallied the Republican majority to pass a bill that maintains government operations, even earning support from staunch conservatives in the Freedom Caucus. This surprising cohesion was achieved despite former President Donald Trump’s public demands and warnings, which had previously kept dissent in check. Johnson mustered the support of rank-and-file Republicans, inspired by Trump’s ongoing restructuring agenda led by Elon Musk. This agenda is dramatically reducing the size of the federal government and lays off numerous federal employees.
Rep. Tom McClintock, a Republican from California and a known advocate for deficit reduction, embraced this effort by voting in favor of the bill. The GOP has recalibrated as a unified force, embracing newfound power and eschewing previous chaos fueled by internal disputes. The Democrats, with a minority position in both House and Senate, must quickly adjust to this development. For years, the narrative of Republican governance struggling with unity has benefited Democrats, but its relevance is waning as the GOP demonstrates rapid and cohesive governance.
Tuesday’s legislative actions coincided with the Department of Education’s announcement of cutting approximately 1,300 jobs, signaling further government downsizing. Johnson, celebrating this victory, emphasized the importance of reducing the federal government’s size and scope. The proposed bill now advances to the Senate, where Republicans hold a slight majority. Democrats, led by Senate leader Chuck Schumer, are faced with difficult choices.
As they grapple with providing necessary votes to meet the 60-vote threshold or risk a shutdown, Democrats weigh their options. Schumer suggested a short-term 30-day funding bill, trying to stave off a shutdown while negotiations continue, though Republican approval remains uncertain as the deadline looms. With limited bargaining power, Democrats warn of the implications of Trump and Musk’s ambitious cuts. Trump pushes for a sweeping tax cut coupled with considerable spending reductions, significantly affecting Medicaid and agricultural programs. Musk advocates for cutting entitlement programs like Social Security.
Democratic whip Rep. Katherine Clark criticized the prevailing Republican support for Musk, arguing that it reflects poorly on GOP’s openness to public discourse. Yet, the Republican unity persists, with nearly every House Republican and one Democrat, Maine’s Rep. Jared Golden, supporting the funding bill extending federal operations through the fiscal year end in September. Last month, Johnson successfully led Republicans in approving a budget framework conducive to Trump’s significant fiscal legislation, with actions anticipated as soon as next year.
Johnson announced an upcoming White House proposal to retract previously approved funds across the federal spectrum. Other Republicans suggest the Trump administration consider withholding unspent congressional funds, potentially igniting constitutional challenges regarding the separation of powers. For many Republicans, the drastic government changes envisioned under DOGE surpass expectations. Rep. Richard Hudson of North Carolina expressed exhilaration over these developments.
Hardcore conservatives, traditionally obstructionists on funding bills, are convinced to stand down, motivated by Trump’s agenda. Among them, Rep. Chip Roy of Texas and Rep. Andrew Clyde of Georgia are on board with continuing resolutions to fund the government, as long as the cuts proceed. Speaker Johnson assures that Trump is engaged in every step, even personally dealing with dissenters within his party. Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky remains steadfast, maintaining his ideological stance against government spending despite President Trump’s overtures.
Elsewhere, Rep. Rich McCormick of Georgia voiced support for Trump’s success, affirming the president’s influence even without direct communication. Overall, this shift represents a new era for House Republicans as they navigate governance with cohesion, marking a departure from previous internal divisions.
