House Republicans, under the leadership of Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), have unveiled a six-month temporary funding plan to prevent a government shutdown on March 14. The proposal, which has garnered support from former President Donald Trump, aims to fund federal agencies through September while reducing nondefense spending and boosting military budgets. This sets the stage for a heated clash between Republicans and Democrats over federal spending priorities and government operations.
Key Details of the Proposal
The proposed continuing resolution (CR) would keep the government running until the fiscal year ends on September 30. Highlights of the plan include:
- A $13 billion reduction in nondefense discretionary spending compared to 2024 levels.
- A $6 billion increase in defense spending.
- Additional resources for border security initiatives.
- Pay raises for junior enlisted military personnel.
- Increased funding for veterans’ healthcare and housing programs.
- A $20 billion cut to IRS funding.
Republicans argue that the defense spending boost is intended to address concerns from national security advocates who have criticized previous short-term funding measures for inadequately supporting the military. The bill also provides the Defense Department with greater flexibility to launch new programs and reallocate funds, a move aimed at addressing long-standing GOP concerns.
A contentious aspect of the proposal is the elimination of congressionally directed spending, or “earmarks,” which are typically included in funding bills to support specific projects in lawmakers’ districts. Critics argue that this change could shift spending authority to the executive branch, particularly if Trump wins the 2024 presidential election.
Trump’s Influence and GOP Solidarity
Former President Trump has thrown his weight behind the bill, urging Republican lawmakers to support it. On his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump called the proposal a “very good funding bill” and urged all Republicans to vote in favor. His endorsement is seen as a strategic effort to unify the party, especially among hardline conservatives who have historically opposed temporary funding measures.
Trump’s backing could be pivotal in swaying GOP holdouts, as Speaker Johnson has previously relied on Democratic votes to pass similar measures. Some Republicans have indicated they are willing to support the bill, viewing it as a step toward achieving broader fiscal goals, such as tax cuts and deeper spending reductions later in the year.
Democratic Pushback
Democrats have strongly criticized the proposal, arguing that it harms essential government programs and grants excessive control over federal spending to Trump and his allies. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) has questioned the bill’s chances of passing without Democratic support, while Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.), the top Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee, labeled it a “power grab for the White House.”
DeLauro also raised concerns about the bill’s impact on veterans’ healthcare, particularly its elimination of funding for the Toxic Exposures Fund, which supports veterans affected by hazardous substances like Agent Orange and burn pits. Other Democrats have echoed these criticisms, arguing that the plan prioritizes military spending at the expense of domestic programs that millions of Americans depend on.
Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.), the top Democrat on the Senate Appropriations Committee, warned that the bill undermines Congress’s traditional role in budget decisions. She called for a short-term funding measure to prevent a shutdown and allow time for bipartisan negotiations on long-term spending bills.
Challenges to Passage
The bill faces significant hurdles in both the House and Senate. In the House, Republicans hold a slim 218-214 majority, meaning they can afford only a few defections if all Democrats oppose the measure. While Speaker Johnson has expressed confidence in securing enough GOP votes, some Republicans remain undecided.
Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-Fla.) highlighted the uncertainty, stating on social media that he would vote against the bill and challenging Republicans to prove they can pass it on their own. On the GOP side, some hardline conservatives, including Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.) and Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.), have expressed reservations about the proposal.
Even if the bill passes the House, it faces an uphill battle in the Senate, where it requires at least 60 votes to advance. With Republicans holding only 53 seats, they would need support from at least seven Democrats, which appears unlikely given the strong opposition from Democratic leaders.
The Stakes of a Shutdown
If Congress fails to pass a funding bill by March 14, the government will shut down, leading to furloughs for federal employees and disruptions to public services. Essential workers, including military personnel, would continue working without pay until a resolution is reached.
Government programs have been operating on temporary funding measures since October, the start of the 2025 fiscal year. Democrats have warned that another CR, especially one lasting until September, could harm defense programs, healthcare services, and veteran benefits.
Republicans, however, argue that their plan is necessary to curb government spending and lay the groundwork for broader fiscal reforms. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) emphasized the importance of investing in national defense, stating that the costs of deterring conflict are far lower than the costs of engaging in war.
What’s Next?
The coming days will be critical in determining whether Speaker Johnson can rally enough support to pass the bill and avert a shutdown. With Trump actively pushing for party unity and Democrats firmly opposed, the fate of the proposal remains uncertain. If the bill fails, Congress will have only a few days to find an alternative solution before federal funding runs out. The outcome will have significant implications for government operations, federal employees, and the broader political landscape.
