House Speaker Mike Johnson has put forward a proposal to extend government funding for certain agencies and programs in order to prevent a partial government shutdown. The plan aims to address concerns from GOP lawmakers who want to avoid a massive spending bill right before the holidays.
The bill, proposed by Johnson, would separate the funding requested by President Biden for Israel, Ukraine, and the U.S.-Mexico border. This would allow for more focused discussions on fiscal responsibility, oversight over Ukraine aid, and policy changes at the border. Even hardline conservatives, who typically oppose temporary spending measures, are willing to give Johnson some leeway to pass a continuing resolution (CR) to allow for more time to negotiate a long-term agreement.
However, not everyone is supportive of Johnson’s proposal. Representative Chip Roy has criticized the plan, stating his opposition to funding Pelosi-level spending and policies for 75 days. Despite the opposition, the federal government is currently operating under funding levels approved by a Democratic-led House and Senate last year.
Johnson’s proposal would extend funding for four spending bills until January 19 and for eight other spending bills until February 2. Some of the departments and agencies that would be covered include defense, the State Department, Homeland Security, and others.
The proposal has faced criticism from both the White House and Moody’s Investors Service. Concerns have been raised about the extent of political polarization and the impact on the national debt. However, Johnson has responded by stating that House Republicans are committed to working in a bipartisan fashion for fiscal restraint. He has even suggested the introduction of a debt commission to address the issue.
In conclusion, House Speaker Mike Johnson has proposed a plan to extend government funding for certain agencies and programs in order to avoid a partial government shutdown. While the proposal has received criticism from some quarters, Johnson and House Republicans maintain their commitment to fiscal responsibility and working in a bipartisan manner. The fate of the proposal and its potential impact on the national debt remains to be seen.
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