In a dramatic turn of events, a Republican-led effort to avert a looming government shutdown collapsed in the House of Representatives on Friday, despite backing from former President Donald Trump. The proposal, crafted to provide a temporary extension of government funding, faced fierce opposition from within the GOP, signaling deep divisions within the party.
The bill, championed by House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, sought to keep federal agencies operating for an additional 30 days while lawmakers negotiated a broader budget deal. However, the measure failed to secure enough support, with dozens of Republicans joining Democrats in voting against it. The defeat has heightened fears of a government shutdown, with federal funding set to expire at midnight on Saturday.
Former President Trump, who has maintained significant influence over the Republican Party, had urged lawmakers to back the proposal, framing it as a necessary step to “put America first.” Despite his endorsement, hardline conservative members of the House Freedom Caucus rejected the bill, criticizing it as insufficiently aggressive in cutting spending and addressing border security.
“This was an opportunity to show the American people that we are serious about fiscal responsibility and protecting our borders,” said Representative Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.), one of the bill’s outspoken critics. “Instead, we were handed another Washington compromise.”
Democrats, meanwhile, blasted the proposal as a political stunt, accusing Republicans of using the threat of a shutdown as leverage to push a partisan agenda. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) called for bipartisan cooperation to avoid disruption to federal services.
“Republicans are playing a dangerous game that could harm millions of Americans,” Jeffries said. “We need to focus on real solutions, not political theater.”
The failure of the bill leaves Congress with limited options to prevent a shutdown, which could have widespread consequences for government workers, federal programs, and the economy. Analysts warn that prolonged gridlock could erode public trust in Congress and have long-term ramifications for the nation’s financial stability.
President Joe Biden has also weighed in, urging lawmakers to “put politics aside” and act swiftly to ensure the government remains operational. In a statement, the White House emphasized the importance of stability during a time of economic uncertainty and global challenges.
With the clock ticking, attention now turns to whether a last-minute deal can be struck to keep the government funded. However, the collapse of the Trump-backed proposal has cast doubt on the GOP’s ability to unite around a cohesive strategy, further complicating an already fraught situation.
