In a last-minute move to prevent a government shutdown, the US House of Representatives approved a bipartisan funding bill late Friday. The bill, which secures government operations until mid-March, now awaits a final decision in the Senate.
Key Details of the Funding Bill:
- House Vote Outcome: 366-34 in favor
- Deadline: Midnight Friday (0500 GMT)
- Support: Bipartisan, with 34 Republican backbenchers voting in favor
- Next Step: Senate approval before the midnight cutoff
The bill includes provisions for over $100 billion in aid targeting natural disaster victims and farmers.
Bipartisan Cooperation:
Despite the House being controlled by Republicans, the funding bill saw broad bipartisan backing. Prominent Democrat Bennie Thompson highlighted this cooperation:
“Today, Democrats stood firm in our commitment to collaboration, not division. The American people deserve a government that works for them.”
Shutdown Consequences if Senate Delays:
If the Senate fails to act before midnight:
- Up to 875,000 federal workers face furloughs.
- 1.4 million essential workers must work without pay.
- Key services like law enforcement, air traffic control, and airport screening will continue operating without salary payments.
The White House had already started preparing for a shutdown, notifying federal workers about potential furloughs.
Elon Musk’s Support for the Bill:
Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk voiced his support for the funding package on X (formerly Twitter):
“The Speaker did a good job here, given the circumstances. It went from a bill that weighed pounds to a bill that weighed ounces.”
House Speaker Mike Johnson acknowledged Musk’s involvement, mentioning a productive conversation with him before the House vote.
Political Turmoil and Trump’s Influence:
The funding debate revealed the lingering influence of former President Donald Trump:
- Trump and Musk initially opposed an earlier version of the bill.
- Republican lawmakers abandoned a previously negotiated bipartisan deal.
- The revised funding package was adjusted to address Trump’s demands.
What Happens Next?
- The Senate must act swiftly to pass the funding bill before the midnight deadline.
- President Joe Biden is expected to sign the measure into law once it clears the Senate.
Conclusion:
The US House’s approval of the funding bill marks a critical step in avoiding a disruptive government shutdown. As the Senate prepares to vote, all eyes remain on lawmakers to ensure the continuation of federal operations and support for essential services.
