House Republicans have introduced a spending bill aimed at keeping federal agencies funded through September 30. The proposed legislation, a six-month continuing resolution (CR), seeks to provide temporary funding for the government. The bill outlines approximately $892.5 billion in defense spending and $708 billion for nondefense sectors. While defense allocations slightly exceed last year's levels, nondefense funding falls around 8% below previous appropriations.
The proposed bill notably excludes funding for major government programs such as Social Security and Medicare. These programs operate on autopilot, avoiding regular Congressional review. Additionally, the legislation omits earmarks—funds requested by individual lawmakers for community projects nationwide.
House Republicans have opted for a solitary approach in pushing the CR forward, without support from Democratic counterparts. The situation intensifies in the Senate, where at least seven Democratic votes are required to surpass a potential filibuster. Democratic leaders in both chambers have emphasized that with majority control, Republicans bear the responsibility of ensuring government funding. Congress faces a looming deadline of midnight Friday to prevent a partial government shutdown.
The CR forms part of a broader Republican strategy, allowing focus on extending tax cuts from Trump's first term and addressing the nation’s debt limit. The legislation grants the Trump administration greater spending flexibility, a point of concern for Democrats. House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries has expressed readiness to negotiate for a "meaningful, bipartisan spending agreement that puts working people first."
"We cannot stand by and accept a yearlong power grab CR that would help Elon take a chainsaw to programs that families rely on and agencies that keep our communities safe."
- Washington Sen. Patty Murray
The proposal is set for a House vote on Tuesday, despite lack of Democratic backing. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer highlighted the necessity for bipartisan solutions, stating,
"We have to wait to see what their plan is. We've always believed the only solution is a bipartisan solution, no matter what."
The exclusion of earmarks and focus on defense spending has drawn criticism from Democrats, who argue the approach neglects vital community needs.
"That is not acceptable."
- House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries
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