With just over two weeks left until the federal government’s funding deadline, Congress is scrambling to avoid a shutdown. As of now, there is no clear strategy in place to prevent a lapse in government funding. The current funding is set to expire on March 14, and lawmakers are racing against the clock to reach a solution.
Acknowledging that passing full appropriations bills before the deadline is improbable, officials are considering a funding extension called a continuing resolution (CR) to buy more time. Republican leaders have proposed a long-term extension to maintain current funding levels until the end of September, while members from both parties are advocating for a short-term extension to allow for the completion of funding bills. President Donald Trump has expressed support for the long-term extension.
However, political complexities threaten to hinder any potential extension. Democrats, as the minority party, are seeking assurances from Republicans regarding the implementation of the spending bill. They are wary of recent actions by the administration that they perceive as overreaching, such as cuts to federal programs.
Democrats are pushing for congressional oversight on how funds are allocated, emphasizing the importance of upholding Congress’ authority over budget decisions. On the other hand, Republicans argue against placing limitations on the president, especially since the party holds the majority in Congress and the White House.
This standoff has intensified with recent comments from House Speaker Mike Johnson suggesting that a funding extension could legitimize controversial changes made by the administration. The looming deadline has set the stage for a high-stakes showdown between Republicans and Democrats, with both sides vying for control over the outcome.
Johnson mentioned to CNN on Wednesday night that the Democrats seem to be attempting to shift the blame for a potential government shutdown onto the shoulders of the Republicans. He expressed his concern that the Democrats are pushing for a funding extension with unreasonable conditions added to the negotiations in recent weeks. He stated, “Right now, it appears that the Democrats are aiming to orchestrate a government shutdown. We cannot allow this to occur, and we will not let it happen.”
On the other hand, Democrats argue that since Republicans hold the majority in both chambers of Congress and the presidency, they bear the primary responsibility for ensuring that the government remains operational. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer emphasized that Democrats are prepared to support any legislation that prevents a government shutdown. He urged Congressional Republicans to engage in bipartisan negotiations and cooperation, highlighting the necessity of responsible governance to avoid a potential “Trump Shutdown.”
During a government shutdown, all non-essential government employees and functions cease operations. Non-essential federal workers are placed on furlough without pay until the government reopens. Notably, essential services such as Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid payments, mail delivery by the U.S. Postal Service, food benefits through SNAP, and military veterans benefits continue uninterrupted.
However, national parks close, security reviews against hacking halt, civil litigation in courts pauses, and environmental and permitting reviews come to a standstill during a government shutdown. Air traffic controllers continue working, although previous shutdowns have seen challenges with absenteeism. The longest government shutdown, lasting 35 days, occurred from December 2018 to January 2019 during President Trump’s first term, with two other shutdowns also taking place during his tenure.
