Government Shutdown Looms as House Returns to Washington
As the clock ticks closer to a potential government shutdown, lawmakers in Washington are scrambling to find a solution. With funding for several key agencies set to lapse on Saturday, the House is returning to session today with a sense of urgency.Funding Lapse Imminent
A partial government shutdown began on Saturday when funding lapsed for federal agencies and programs including the departments of Defense, Homeland Security, State, Treasury, Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Transportation. The lapse could be short-lived, however, as a five-bill package to fund these agencies through September has already passed the Senate.
House Speaker Expresses Confidence
House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed confidence in his ability to get the funding package approved by Tuesday. In an interview on 'Meet the Press,' Johnson stated, 'We have a logistical challenge of getting everyone in town... But Republicans are going to do the responsible thing and fund the government.' He acknowledged that he may face opposition from some members of his own party but remains optimistic.
Rules Committee to Take Up Funding Package
The funding package will first go to the Rules Committee, which is set to meet Monday afternoon. The committee's approval is crucial as it requires a simple majority for passage on the House floor. However, several procedural hurdles lie ahead, including potential opposition from at least one Republican and concerns about keeping party unity.
Democrats Refuse to Fast-Track Bill
In a move that could prolong the shutdown, Democrats have informed GOP leadership that they will not help fast-track the bill. This decision has raised questions about whether Johnson can keep his party united in a procedural vote before final passage.
As the House returns to session today, lawmakers face a daunting task: finding a solution to the impending government shutdown. With funding for several key agencies set to lapse and opposition from both parties, it remains to be seen whether they can come together to avoid a prolonged partial shutdown.
