Frustration Between House, Senate as Potential Shutdown Looms Again

We’re just two weeks away from a possible government shutdown, and internal disagreements are once again hitting House Republicans, and damaging chances of a short-term resolution to keep the government open.

Here’s the situation as of today, September 17.

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) is trying to push a six-month funding bill that would punt the next funding decision until March, when the new president and congress is in power. The speaker also tied a bill requiring proof of citizenship to vote, to the continuing resolution.

Democrats say they package is a non-starter. They want the voting legislation removed and say funding should only be extended through December to clear the deck for the next president.

Republicans aren’t all on board either.

Some hardline conservatives say the plan does not go far enough in cutting spending. Others side with Democrats and believe it’s better to extend current funding levels only to December.

Still the Speaker has yet to back down.

“I believe we can fund the government responsibly, and I believe we can do right by the American people and ensure the security of our elections. I defy anybody to give me any logical argument why we shouldn’t do that. That’s why I’m so resolute about this,” Speaker Johnson said.

Senate Growing Frustrated

Meanwhile, Senate Republicans are said to be growing tired with the drama in the House, and are apparently ready to work with Senate Democrats to fund the government until mid-December. 

“I am very worried. I don’t think anybody wants a shutdown, but we could slide into a shutdown if we don’t get the work done,” said Senator Susan Collins (R-ME).  

Meanwhile the appropriations process continues even as the fight over the short-term continuing resolution marches on.

The House has passed five of the 12 full-year spending bills, some with steep cuts; the Senate has passed none, but all 12 are also through the appropriations panel.

One area of note is that Congress will settle on $833 billion for defense in FY 2025. That includes some $38 billion in defense-related projects that were added by members of Congress.