Government Shutdown Looms as Funding Bill Stalls
On a recent episode of Fox News’ “Ingraham Angle,” Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson commented that if the Senate were to pass a funding suspension bill, Congress could “work again.” This statement came as federal employees began preparations for a potential government shutdown, with the Senate yet to approve a resolution passed by the House on Tuesday night. Ingraham pressed Johnson on the implications of a temporary funding agreement extending through November 21st, possibly alleviating the current “closure war.”
“Absolutely. This is a critical time that allows both parties to fulfill their responsibilities,” Johnson stated. He noted that twelve separate spending bills had already been processed through a House committee and that the Senate was reviewing them as well.
Johnson expressed optimism about the situation, saying, “We need more time to navigate this through both chambers. We can bring Congress back to work.” He mentioned the possibility of creating distinct spending bills rather than relying on a comprehensive omnibus bill by the year’s end.
Earlier, on September 19, House Republicans narrowly approved a short-term funding measure with a vote of 217-212, where nearly all Democrats opposed the effort to keep the government operational. This led to increased tensions as the bill progressed to the Senate.
Some House Democrats cautioned their Senate colleagues about the severe consequences of such shutdowns. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has called for Republicans to make policy concessions to prevent the government from closing.
On Tuesday night, the Senate turned down an alternative spending plan that included the House’s resolution. Senate Majority Leader John Toon indicated in a post that Democrats had opted for a shutdown but suggested that a “reopening” could happen if enough Democrats joined forces with Republicans to pass the bill.
If the Senate does not approve the funding measure soon, the government shutdown is anticipated to begin at 12:01 AM on Wednesday.
