Republicans Unveil Stopgap Funding Bill to Avert Government Shutdown

As the March 14 deadline to avert a government shutdown approaches, House Speaker Mike Johnson has unveiled a stopgap funding bill designed to keep federal operations running through September 30, 2025. This legislation proposes a $6 billion increase in defense spending, accompanied by $13 billion in cuts to non-defense discretionary programs. The bill is scheduled for a House vote on Tuesday.

President Trump has expressed strong support for the proposed measure, taking to Truth Social to encourage Republican lawmakers to back the bill. He emphasized the importance of passing the continuing resolution to maintain government operations and allow time to address fiscal challenges.

The legislative proposal has ignited debate, with Republicans divided over the specifics of defense spending increases and domestic cuts. The bill's passage in the House is contingent upon near-unanimous Republican support, given the slim majority. Should the measure advance, it faces an uncertain future in the Senate, where bipartisan backing will be crucial to avoid a shutdown.

As negotiations continue, the potential for a government shutdown looms, underscoring the challenges Congress faces in reaching consensus on federal funding priorities.