Congress Approves Interim Funding Measure to Prevent Government Shutdown

Washington — In a decisive vote, the House successfully passed a short-term funding plan presented by Speaker Mike Johnson, averting a potential government shutdown. The two-step proposal received bipartisan support, with Democrats leading the charge for its passage. Johnson's bill extends federal funding at current levels for select agencies and programs through January 19, and another batch through February 2. This strategic approach aims to avoid a last-minute spending bill during the holiday season, allowing ongoing negotiations on funding levels to continue. While more Democrats than Republicans voted in favor of the measure, Johnson celebrated the bill's passage, emphasizing its potential to advance conservative policy victories. The resolution is expected to promptly gain approval in the Senate, enabling President Biden to sign it into law prior to the funding deadline. By approving this measure, the House effectively eliminates the risk of a shutdown on Saturday, when government funding would have expired. The House leadership, along with Democratic representatives, expressed their support for the plan, highlighting the necessity of avoiding a government shutdown during these delicate times. The House Freedom Caucus, a coalition of far-right Republican lawmakers, opposed the bill due to its absence of spending cuts and border security provisions. However, the bill's focus solely on funding continuation helped garner significant support from House Democrats, who sought a clean and uncontroversial continuing resolution. This interim funding measure represents Speaker Johnson's first significant test since assuming office, following a tumultuous period in House Republican leadership. Johnson's approach, structured similarly to his predecessor's, seeks to prevent a government shutdown without including conservative priorities. Johnson's plan received limited opposition from conservative lawmakers, indicating a willingness to cooperate with the new speaker. Although emergency assistance for Israel and Ukraine, requested by President Biden, was omitted from Johnson's proposal, discussions on necessary oversight for Ukraine aid and support for Israel can now be pursued.