House GOP Unveils Shutdown-Avoidance Bill, Daring Dems to Oppose It/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ House Republicans have introduced a spending bill that would keep the government funded through September 30, aiming to push through their plan without Democratic support. The proposal boosts defense spending while cutting nondefense programs by 8%, a move likely to provoke opposition from Democrats. Speaker Mike Johnson is banking on Republican unity, with President Donald Trump backing the bill and urging swift passage. If no agreement is reached by March 14, a government shutdown looms.
House GOP’s Budget Plan: Quick Look
- Republicans Go It Alone
- House GOP unveils funding bill without Democratic input.
- Pushes for a vote on Tuesday before the March 14 shutdown deadline.
- Key Spending Provisions
- Defense spending set at $892.5 billion (slightly increased).
- Nondefense spending cut by 8% ($708 billion).
- Earmarks and community project funds removed.
- Trump’s Support
- Former president urges swift passage: “Let’s get this Bill done!”
- White House backs GOP strategy to push the bill through Congress.
- Democratic Backlash
- Senate Democrats call the plan a “power grab”.
- Concerns over deep cuts to veterans’ benefits, social programs.
- Senate Hurdles Ahead
- Republicans need at least 7 Democratic votes to pass.
- Democrats insist on a bipartisan solution.
Deep Look: House GOP Unveils Shutdown-Avoidance Bill, Daring Dems to Oppose It
Republicans Introduce Shutdown-Avoidance Bill Without Democratic Input
In a high-stakes budget standoff, House Republicans have unveiled a spending bill aimed at funding the government through September 30, but without Democratic input.
The 99-page bill seeks to increase defense spending while cutting nondefense programs by 8%—an approach that is expected to face strong opposition from Democrats.
With government funding set to expire at midnight on March 14, Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) is daring Democrats to reject the proposal and face potential blame for a shutdown.
“We have a plan that prioritizes American interests and fiscal responsibility,” Johnson said, signaling his party’s resolve to push through the bill.
GOP Seeks to Pass the Bill Without Democratic Votes
Republicans typically require bipartisan support to pass spending measures, as internal divisions often make party-line votes difficult.
However, this time, Johnson and his leadership team believe they can muscle the legislation through the House with minimal Democratic support—a risky gamble that hinges on party unity and Trump’s influence.
“Let’s get this Bill done!” Trump posted on social media, backing Johnson’s approach.
Republican Rep. Ralph Norman (R-S.C.) said he has never supported continuing resolutions in the past but is on board with Johnson’s strategy this time.
“I don’t like CRs, but what’s the alternative? Negotiate with Democrats? No.”
What’s in the House GOP’s Budget Bill?
According to Republican leadership, the bill includes:
- $892.5 billion in defense spending (slightly higher than 2024 levels).
- $708 billion for nondefense programs (8% cut from 2024).
- No funding for earmarks or community projects.
- Exclusion of side agreements negotiated under President Biden and former Speaker Kevin McCarthy.
Republicans say the cuts are necessary to rein in government spending.
Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas) defended the plan, stating:
“I freeze spending for six months to go identify more cuts? Somebody tell me how that’s not a win in Washington.”
Democrats Slam GOP’s ‘Partisan’ Approach
Democratic leaders immediately pushed back, arguing that the bill unfairly slashes funding for essential programs.
Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.), chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, called the bill:
“A yearlong power grab that would help Elon take a chainsaw to programs that families rely on and agencies that keep our communities safe.”
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) warned that refusing bipartisan negotiations increases the risk of a government shutdown.
“We’ve always believed the only solution is a bipartisan solution, no matter what.”
House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) also criticized the bill, saying it threatens veterans’ benefits and low-income assistance programs.
“That is not acceptable.”
Can the Bill Pass the Senate?
While House Republicans may force the bill through their chamber, the Senate presents a bigger challenge.
To overcome a filibuster, at least 7 Democratic votes will be needed—a difficult hurdle given the opposition from Democratic leaders.
Additionally, Republicans hold a narrow 218-214 House majority, meaning even a small number of GOP defections could sink the bill.
Rep. Tom Cole (R-Okla.) acknowledged that negotiations might still be needed, suggesting that the bill could serve as leverage to extract concessions from Democrats.
What Happens Next?
- Tuesday: House votes on the spending bill.
- Friday (March 14): Government funding deadline.
- If the bill fails: Republicans and Democrats will need to quickly negotiate an alternative to avoid a shutdown.
With Trump backing Johnson’s approach, the GOP is taking a hard-line stance on cutting government spending. However, whether this strategy succeeds or backfires remains to be seen.
