House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has proposed a stopgap funding bill in an effort to prevent a government shutdown, bypassing the concerns of hard-right Republicans. The decision to expedite the funding proposal came after it became evident that Republicans were unable to pass it through their divided caucus.
The bill was expedited after hard-right Republicans, angered by Johnson’s rejection of their requests to attach spending cuts, border security provisions, or funding for Israel, planned to block passage of the bill. House Republicans then decided to pass the package by suspending House rules, requiring the support of two-thirds of the House, which means they will need help from Democrats.
Once the bill is passed by the House, it is expected to clear the Senate, where both Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) have endorsed the plan. Johnson’s decision to circumvent the far right’s concerns comes after weeks of compromise that left no faction completely satisfied.
The proposal has incited frustration among far-right members, with suggestions that the group may become more aggressive in future votes. Despite criticisms of Johnson’s approach, House Democrats are expected to support the proposal. However, hard-liners have indicated that the period of leniency given to Johnson has ended.
This fiscal debate has highlighted the ongoing tension between far-right Republicans and conservatives, raising questions about the party’s ability to pass appropriation bills funding the government. The backlash and potential consequences of Johnson’s proposal will likely shape the dynamics of future negotiations and debates within the Republican party.