Efforts to avert a partial government shutdown by this weekend stalled as Republicans criticized additional provisions in a short-term funding bill. Vice President-elect J.D. Vance suggested leveraging the time before the shutdown to press Democrats on the debt limit. The proposed spending package, released Tuesday, would fund the government until March 14 and extend farm bill programs through September, also providing billions in emergency disaster aid.
However, the package includes sections that have angered far-right Republicans and Trump allies, who argue non-essential provisions should be removed, complicating negotiations between the Republican House and Democratic Senate. Congress must approve a spending bill by midnight Friday to avoid a shutdown, which would halt federal departments and agencies, forcing exempt employees to work unpaid and furloughing non-exempt staff.
This shutdown could impact more federal operations compared to the 35-day closure during Trump’s first term. A failed agreement would cut off pay to U.S. troops and national security agencies, affecting departments aiding disaster-hit communities, like those dealing with hurricanes Helene and Milton. Agencies such as FEMA, the Department of Agriculture, and the Small Business Administration would face funding lapses.
Debt Limit Concerns
The debt limit entered negotiations when Vance insisted it be included in the spending bill. The current suspension expires January 1, but lawmakers may utilize extraordinary measures before default. Vance criticized past Republican decisions on the debt ceiling and suggested addressing it while Biden is in office. Elon Musk advised delaying legislative action until after Trump’s inauguration, potentially impacting numerous government programs.
Sen. Thom Tillis emphasized the need for disaster aid in any temporary spending bill, stating that congressional leaders should not leave without passing recovery assistance. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito supported maintaining disaster aid, citing visits to affected areas like Asheville and West Virginia.
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