House Speaker Mike Johnson’s Plan
In a strategic move unveiled late on Monday night, House Speaker Mike Johnson is poised to address the imminent threat of a government shutdown. The House is scheduled to deliberate a stopgap funding measure today, commonly referred to as a “continuing resolution,” aimed at providing temporary financial support to sustain government operations.
Procedure and Challenges
This unique legislative process involves employing the “suspension of the rules,” circumventing the conventional route through the House Rules Committee. However, this unconventional approach comes with specific stipulations—it cannot undergo amendments, and its passage necessitates a substantial two-thirds majority.
Political Dynamics and Historical Context
Drawing parallels with the political maneuver executed by former Speaker Kevin McCarthy in late September adds a layer of complexity to Johnson’s current situation. McCarthy’s analogous strategy averted a government shutdown but precipitated a vote of no confidence, leading to the loss of the speakership.
Details of Johnson’s Stopgap Bill to Prevent Government Shutdown
Johnson’s proposed stopgap bill, officially unveiled on Saturday, delineates the extension of government funding. The nuanced approach outlines different timelines for various agencies, with some funded until Jan. 19 and others receiving financial support until Feb. 2. Notably, the bill excludes steep spending cuts but also overlooks funding for crucial areas such as Ukraine, Israel, and the southern border.
Reaction and Opposition
In the wake of Johnson’s plan, visible opposition within the Republican ranks has emerged. Prominent members, including Rep. Chip Roy and the House Freedom Caucus, express reservations about the absence of spending reductions and border security in the proposed bill.
Congressional Progress and Challenges
The impending fiscal year intensifies the pressure on Congress to pass essential appropriations bills, funding various federal government agencies. Despite commendable progress, with the House passing seven bills and the Senate passing three in a “minibus,” none have successfully navigated through both chambers, creating a legislative bottleneck.
Evaluation of Johnson’s Strategy
Johnson’s introduction of the innovative “laddered” approach to a continuing resolution has sparked both interest and criticism. While some members, like House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, view it as a nonstarter, its allure to Democrats lies in the omission of spending cuts.
White House Response and Presidential Consideration
A notable White House statement over the weekend categorizes Johnson’s proposal as an “unserious proposal,” stopping short of a veto threat. President Biden, however, has signaled a willingness to consider signing the bill if it successfully navigates Congress.
Senate’s Procedural Delay
Despite Senate Democrats refraining from robust criticism, a procedural vote on the Senate’s short-term funding extension experienced an unexpected delay. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer clarified that this pause is to allow the House to take the lead with its proposal.
