Washington, D.C.: Former President Donald Trump has called on Republican lawmakers to reject a bipartisan deal designed to prevent an imminent government shutdown. With a deadline looming on Friday night, the proposed deal, known as a "continuing resolution" (CR), seeks to fund federal agencies through mid-March, avoiding a disruption of public services during the holiday season.
The agreement, crafted by congressional leaders, has faced significant pushback from Trump and prominent allies, including tech mogul Elon Musk. They object to additional spending provisions within the 1,547-page bill, which would likely inflate costs. Trump criticized the concessions made to Democrats, labeling them "a betrayal of our country" and urging Republicans to "GET SMART and TOUGH."
Opposition to Additional Spending
The CR includes over $100 billion for disaster relief, $30 billion in farmer aid, restrictions on investments in China, and the first salary increase for lawmakers since 2009. However, these add-ons have sparked divisions among Republicans, who argue the bill is laden with unnecessary expenditures, or "pork," added without adequate public scrutiny. The other 1,500-plus pages introduce new policies and spending that undermine representative government."
Tensions in the Republican Camp
The GOP, currently controlling the House of Representatives, faces internal discord. The narrow Republican majority allows them to lose only three votes in partisan decisions. Without bipartisan support, the bill's survival is unlikely.
Trump's influence remains substantial, and his opposition virtually ensures the resolution will not reach President Joe Biden's desk in time. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries criticized the GOP's stance, stating, "House Republicans have been ordered to shut down the government and hurt working-class Americans.
Challenges for House Speaker Mike Johnson
The stakes are particularly high for new House Speaker Mike Johnson. His leadership is under scrutiny as he seeks to maintain control of the Republican caucus ahead of a January vote for his position. Johnson has defended the CR, framing it as a preparatory step for Trump's potential resurgence.
Implications of a Government Shutdown
If an agreement is not reached, government services, including national parks and border control, will begin shutting down Saturday. The disaster relief funds at the center of the controversy are intended to assist victims of hurricanes, floods, wildfires, and tornadoes that devastated parts of the U.S. in 2024.
Meanwhile, one controversial provision in the CR proposes lifting a freeze on congressional pay increases. Supporters argue that stagnant salaries at $174,000 annually discourage talented individuals from public service, leaving political office accessible primarily to the wealthy.
As the deadline nears, uncertainty looms over whether Congress can reach a resolution to keep federal operations running smoothly.