WASHINGTON: A potential US government shutdown is set for Saturday at 12:01 AM if Congress fails to pass a funding bill.
Lawmakers remain deadlocked over budget proposals, risking halts to essential government services and millions of federal employee payments.
Trump’s Intervention Shatters Bipartisan Agreement
President-elect Donald Trump derailed a bipartisan funding deal crafted by Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson, escalating Capitol Hill tensions.
Criticizing the deal for concessions to Democrats, Trump demanded the inclusion of measures to raise or remove the federal debt ceiling.
Elon Musk and Vice President-elect JD Vance also condemned the agreement, further fracturing Republican unity in the House.
Republicans’ Divisions Hamper Progress
The Republican-controlled House narrowly defeated Trump-backed legislation on Thursday, signaling discord within the GOP as only 38 Republicans supported Democrats in opposition.
House Speaker Mike Johnson vowed to propose a new resolution but faces challenges appeasing hard-right allies and moderates alike.
Shutdown Implications
A shutdown would suspend payments for millions of government employees and halt “non-essential” services, including national parks and food safety inspections.
Essential services like military operations and law enforcement would continue but without pay until funding is restored.
A prolonged shutdown could mirror the record 35-day closure under Trump’s first term in 2018.
Musk’s Role Draws Criticism
Appointed by Trump to lead a government efficiency initiative, Elon Musk’s influence has sparked Democratic outrage over his sway on legislative matters.
Musk called for ousting lawmakers supporting “outrageous” spending bills, leading critics to dub the proposal the “Musk-Johnson bill.”
Democrats argue Musk’s increasing clout reflects undue interference in governance, further complicating bipartisan efforts.
Trump has voiced a preference for the shutdown occurring during Biden’s tenure, allowing him to deflect blame onto Democrats.
He reiterated demands to abolish or extend the debt ceiling to grant greater flexibility for future budgets.
Potential for Recurring Budget Fights
Even if a deal is struck, lawmakers face another funding showdown in three months. Temporary resolutions provide limited breathing room for broader budget negotiations.
Speaker Mike Johnson’s leadership will also be tested, with GOP divisions threatening stability ahead of the January House Speaker vote.
A cycle of fiscal brinkmanship underscores challenges in navigating divided government, with recurring shutdown threats now a hallmark of US politics.
