Congress faces the threat of a government shutdown as negotiations broke down over funding bills.
Government funding expires at the end of the week for several agencies.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer blamed “extreme House Republicans” for the stalled talks, saying Speaker Mike Johnson must buck conservatives seeking significant policy changes.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer wrote, “Unfortunately, extreme House Republicans have shown they’re more capable of causing chaos than passing legislation.”
“It is my sincere hope that … Speaker [Mike] JOHNSON will step up to once again buck the extremists in his caucus and do the right thing,” he continued.
Republicans want cuts to agriculture spending and limits on the USDA, a ban on abortion pill delivery by mail, and new SNAP restrictions.
Speaker Mike Johnson said, “Our position is that of the American people and our mission is to take steps to rein in Democrats’ overspending and policies that are harming the economy, raising prices, and making everyday life harder for our constituents.”
Johnson argued the GOP negotiated in good faith to rein in spending and policies harming the economy.
If Congress fails to pass appropriations bills by March 8th, a full shutdown could occur, though lawmakers may opt to pass a short-term continuing resolution to punt the problem.
The breakdown imperils the passage of funding bills for agriculture, energy, veterans affairs, and transportation budgets ahead of the Friday deadline.
