Republican Senators Block Passage of $1.2 Trillion Spending Bill, Government Shutdown Looms
In a dramatic turn of events on Capitol Hill, funding for more than half the government was at risk of lapsing early Saturday morning as Republican senators refused to allow quick passage of a $1.2 trillion spending bill that had been approved by the House earlier on Friday.
The day began with a bipartisan vote in the House to speed the measure through, but a conservative revolt ensued, leading to threats to oust Speaker Mike Johnson. The Senate faced similar resistance from Republicans, leading to late-night negotiations that ultimately failed to meet the midnight deadline to fund the government.
Lawmakers were expected to resolve their differences by Sunday, but a brief shutdown over the weekend seemed imminent. Federal budget officials downplayed the impact of a temporary funding disruption, but the delay highlighted the ongoing challenges in budget negotiations that are already six months behind schedule.
The 1,012-page legislation, which combined six spending bills, faced opposition from ultraconservatives who accused Speaker Johnson of betraying the American people. Despite passage in the House with Democratic support, Republicans criticized the bill for its price tag and inclusion of certain provisions.
Republicans secured funding for border security measures and cuts to foreign aid programs, but conservatives argued the bill was not conservative enough. Democrats, on the other hand, celebrated new funding for child care, education programs, and cancer research.
The tense negotiations and last-minute drama underscored the deep divisions in Congress and the challenges of governing in a divided government. As the threat of a government shutdown loomed, lawmakers scrambled to find a resolution before the funding deadline.
