House Republicans unveiled a spending bill Saturday that aims to keep federal agencies funded through September 30, setting the stage for a confrontation with Democrats over government spending. The 99-page bill would provide more funding for defense programs while cutting non-defense spending below last year’s levels.
President Donald Trump has backed the plan, urging unity among Republicans and criticizing Democrats for not supporting it. However, most Democrats oppose the measure, citing concerns about its impact on social security, medicare, and Medicaid.
Without congressional action by midnight Friday, a partial government shutdown will occur. House Speaker Mike Johnson plans to vote on the bill on Tuesday despite the lack of Democratic support. The bill’s passage is uncertain, but Republicans are hoping it will allow them to focus on extending Trump’s tax cuts and raising the nation’s debt limit.
The measure would allocate about $892.5 billion for defense spending and $708 billion for non-defense spending. It does not include funding for thousands of community projects, known as earmarks. Republicans argue that the bill would provide a pay increase for junior enlisted servicemembers and additional funding for a nutritional assistance program.
Democrats have expressed concerns that the bill’s lack of input from their party increases the chances of a shutdown. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer stated that any legislation should have input from both parties, emphasizing the need for bipartisan solutions.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/government-spending-shutdown-house-senate-426823710920756447076d15077c33d7