The Republican-led House is moving forward with a spending proposal endorsed by former President Donald Trump, aiming to keep the federal government funded through September while implementing key spending cuts. This proposal sets the stage for a heated battle with Democrats ahead of Friday’s shutdown deadline.
Key Details of the GOP Proposal
The bill, released Saturday, proposes funding federal agencies until September 30, reducing nondefense discretionary spending by $13 billion while increasing defense spending by $6 billion. Additionally, the proposal boosts funding for border enforcement, a move designed to appeal to conservative lawmakers who have previously opposed short-term funding measures.
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R., La.) expressed confidence that the measure will pass in the House, despite the chamber’s narrow 218-214 split. House lawmakers are expected to vote on the measure as early as Tuesday.
“The House and Senate have put together, under the circumstances, a very good funding bill,” Trump wrote on Truth Social, urging Republicans to support the proposal without dissent.
GOP Divisions and Trump’s Influence
A faction of House Republicans has consistently opposed temporary funding measures, citing concerns about government spending. However, with Trump’s direct involvement, many of these holdouts appear to be shifting their stance.
Rep. Chip Roy (R., Texas) stated on Fox News that the bill has “overwhelming support,” despite some lingering opposition. Rep. Tony Gonzales (R., Texas), who previously criticized continuing resolutions, remains undecided but acknowledged Trump’s endorsement as a key factor in his decision-making process.
Democratic Opposition and Concerns
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D., N.Y.) and other Democratic leaders strongly oppose the proposal, arguing that it fails to protect critical social programs such as Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid.
“This measure does nothing to protect Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid, while exposing the American people to further pain throughout this fiscal year,” said Jeffries in a statement.
Sen. Patty Murray (D., Wash.), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, criticized the bill for giving too much spending discretion to the Trump administration, potentially undermining congressional oversight. She advocates for a short-term measure to allow for bipartisan negotiations.
Senate Hurdles and the Shutdown Deadline
Even if the bill clears the House, it will need at least 60 votes in the Senate, where Republicans hold only 53 seats. With federal funding set to expire Friday night, a failure to pass new legislation would lead to a partial government shutdown, affecting federal employees and agencies across the country.
The coming days will be crucial as both parties navigate political pressures, budget priorities, and Trump’s direct involvement in shaping the outcome. The final vote tally in both chambers will determine whether the government remains open or enters another period of uncertainty.
