WASHINGTON (AP) — Congress is wrapping up one of the most tumultuous sessions in recent history as attention turns to the next one. In a late-night move, lawmakers passed a government shutdown package, highlighting the emerging political divisions in Washington. President-elect Donald Trump’s return to the White House, House Speaker Mike Johnson’s fight to retain his position, and Republicans gaining control of the House and Senate in the new year are at the forefront.
The bipartisan effort to keep the government operational for a few more months and allocate around $100 billion for disaster relief showcased that the House and Senate can still function together to carry out essential governing tasks. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer praised the bipartisan approach and emphasized the need for collaboration in the future.
Looking ahead, Republicans aim to push through their agenda of tax cuts, spending reductions, increased funding for border security, and deportations without relying on bipartisan support. House Speaker Johnson is eager for a fresh start in January, although his position is precarious, especially after the fracas surrounding the recent government shutdown.
Johnson faces a challenge in retaining his speakership when the new House convenes on Jan. 3. His leadership during the government shutdown has drawn criticism, and it remains uncertain if he can rally enough support from his colleagues. With Democrats opposing him and the pressure from President Trump looming, Johnson’s hold on power is increasingly tenuous.
Despite the obstacles, Johnson managed to secure Trump’s approval for the final deal to raise the debt limit in the coming year. He has cultivated a close relationship with the president, which has bolstered his standing within the party. However, doubts persist about Johnson’s ability to lead effectively, with some questioning his resolve and strategic acumen.
Meanwhile, tech mogul Elon Musk has emerged as a significant player in Capitol Hill politics, leveraging his influence to shape the outcome of key debates. Musk’s involvement in the government shutdown negotiations underscored his growing impact on legislative matters, positioning him as a formidable force in Washington’s power dynamics.
On the social media platform X, Elon Musk tore down Senator Johnson’s original 1,500-page bipartisan bill with swift and relentless criticism. Musk’s posts, filled with inaccuracies and harsh claims, rallied his online followers to metaphorically flood the Capitol. He warned lawmakers that he would challenge them in primary elections if they voted for the bill, supported by his vast wealth and America PAC.
“Kill the bill,” Musk demanded, seizing his moment but also sparking backlash. Several Democrats, and at least one Republican, turned against Musk, viewing him not as a philanthropic billionaire engaging in politics, but as a symbol of unchecked wealth and influence in the U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders condemned the removal of bipartisan provisions from the bill to appease Musk, calling it a dangerous precedent that undermines democracy.
In a separate incident, Rep. Chip Roy, a prominent conservative in the House Freedom Caucus, resisted President Trump’s pressure to include a debt limit increase in a government shutdown package. Despite Trump’s attempts to intimidate Roy, the congressman stood firm on his principles as a deficit hawk, urging his colleagues not to yield to the demands that would increase borrowing and balloon the deficit.
The defeat of Trump’s spending bill with the debt limit increase foreshadows future challenges as Republicans will face the task of raising the debt ceiling in the coming months. Negotiations behind closed doors led to a tentative agreement to cut federal spending by $2.5 trillion over the next decade in exchange for raising the debt limit. However, some lawmakers, like Burchett, expressed skepticism and reluctance to support such a deal, emphasizing the need for thorough consideration and fiscal responsibility.
While Trump may have faced opposition from deficit hawks on the debt ceiling vote, his influence within the GOP remains strong. Despite internal divisions and disagreements over fiscal policy, Trump’s support among his base continues to be a significant factor in shaping political dynamics on Capitol Hill.
Reporter Kevin Freking contributed to this piece.
