In a high-stakes political standoff, House Republicans have failed to pass a stopgap government funding bill, leaving the government on the brink of a shutdown in less than 36 hours. This failure to pass the bill is a significant blow to Speaker Kevin McCarthy, who had essentially dared hardline conservatives to oppose the patch. The bill, which would have temporarily funded the government, was framed by McCarthy as essential for border security, but 21 Republicans broke ranks with their party and sided with Democrats, sinking the legislation.
No Clear Path Forward
The rejection of the stopgap funding bill has left House Republicans in a precarious position. Some conservative lawmakers have vowed to reject any short-term funding patch, further limiting McCarthy’s options. With no more votes expected in the chamber on Friday, it’s unclear what the next steps will be.
Cross-Capitol Negotiations Lacking
The lack of progress isn’t confined to the House. So far, House and Senate leadership aren’t engaging in the cross-Capitol negotiations that could help craft a last-minute deal. Unless an 11th-hour breakthrough occurs, the government will shut down at 12:01 a.m. on Sunday.
Bipartisan Talks and Possible Compromises
Despite the deadlock, there are some bipartisan talks going on, including discussions between members of the House and Senate, although they don’t involve congressional leaders. Sen. Thom Tillis and a group of senators, including Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, are attempting to come up with a compromise on border security provisions in hopes of shoring up support for a stopgap bill.
The Senate’s Move
The Senate, meanwhile, is set to take a key procedural vote on Saturday, just hours before federal funding runs out. They’re considering a bipartisan short-term funding fix that includes funding for Ukraine and disaster aid. However, final passage likely won’t happen before the shutdown deadline.
McCarthy’s Demands and Senate’s Response
Kevin McCarthy has been steadfast in his demands for any stopgap amendment to include “real policy” on border security. However, these demands are unlikely to gain traction in the Senate, where policy changes would require 60 votes to be added to the stopgap bill.
This deadlock leaves the government teetering on the edge of a shutdown, with no clear resolution in sight.
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