USA (Washington Insider Magazine)—The US Senate on Thursday passed a bipartisan stopgap spending bill to avert a partial government shutdown. The bill passed 77-13 in the Senate after the House of Representatives approved it earlier, with 207 Democrats and 113 Republicans voting in favor. This short-term measure, which sets deadlines to fund parts of the government by March 8 and March 22, will now go to President Joe Biden for signing.
President Biden welcomed the bill’s passage, recognizing it as crucial for avoiding the damaging effects of a shutdown but noting it is a temporary fix. The stopgap spending bill buys Congress additional time to negotiate a comprehensive funding agreement for the remainder of the fiscal year, which began in October. The government was facing a potential shutdown unless the bill was approved in time.
Despite the approval, Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson faces challenges ahead. His reliance on Democratic support for passing the bill, along with opposition from hardline conservatives, may complicate future negotiations, particularly over the contentious issue of Ukraine aid. The deadline for completing six full-year appropriations bills is March 22, and the issue of national security funding, including support for Ukraine and other allies, will remain a focal point.
Johnson’s handling of the funding bills is being scrutinized as it impacts both his leadership and the broader political landscape, especially as some Republicans push for more restrictive policies related to immigration and border security. While the temporary funding bill is a necessary step, Congress will face tough negotiations in the coming weeks as lawmakers work toward a long-term resolution.
