House Republicans Push Funding Bill to Avert Shutdown Amid Political Tensions

The Republican-controlled U.S. House of Representatives is set to vote Tuesday on a bill to keep the government funded, preventing a partial shutdown. The measure must pass both chambers before President Donald Trump can sign it into law.

House Speaker Mike Johnson faces a tough battle, with Democrats opposing the bill and some Republicans undecided. Trump has been lobbying fence-sitting GOP members, signaling Johnson may lack enough votes. Hardline conservatives, once resistant, now back the bill, aligning with Trump’s push for tax cuts and increased military and immigration spending.

The bill maintains government funding through September 30, increasing defense spending by $6 billion while cutting non-defense funds by $13 billion. It also keeps a freeze on $20 billion allocated to the IRS. However, House Democrats, led by Hakeem Jeffries, reject it, citing hidden cuts to social programs.

The Senate, where Republicans hold a 53-47 majority, requires at least seven Democratic votes to pass the bill. Some moderate Democrats, like Senator John Fetterman, oppose a shutdown, while others, such as Elissa Slotkin, criticize the administration’s spending approach.

The bill covers critical services like law enforcement and air traffic control, making up a quarter of the $6.75 trillion federal budget. Lawmakers also face a looming debt ceiling battle, with risks of economic turmoil if not addressed. The last shutdown lasted 35 days under Trump’s first term, damaging U.S. credit ratings.

With pressure mounting, Johnson needs full Republican support, as bipartisan disagreements could stall the bill. Senate approval remains uncertain, adding to the political turmoil as Washington navigates another fiscal standoff.