Vice President JD Vance urged House Republicans to unite behind the proposed seven-month funding bill to avoid a government shutdown, warning that the GOP would be blamed if the legislation fails. His remarks highlight the fragile balance within the party and the high stakes involved in securing federal funding while maintaining momentum on key Republican policy initiatives.
Vance Warns House GOP of Shutdown Consequences
Vice President JD Vance cautioned House Republicans that they would bear the blame if the government shuts down, emphasizing the importance of passing the seven-month funding patch. His warning came during a closed-door meeting just hours before an expected vote on Tuesday.
Tight Vote Margin Puts Pressure on Republicans
Vance highlighted the GOP’s slim majority in the House, stating that Republicans “can’t lose another vote” after Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) firmly opposed the funding plan. With government funding set to expire at midnight Friday, every vote counts in ensuring the bill’s passage.
GOP Strategy Hinges on Passing Stopgap Bill
The vice president stressed that the funding measure is critical for advancing the broader domestic policy bill that Republicans are assembling. He argued that failing to pass the stopgap would weaken the GOP’s stance on border security and diminish its credibility with voters.
Trump’s Budget Strategy Remains a Factor
Vance reassured Republican lawmakers that former President Donald Trump remains committed to cutting federal spending through his Department of Government Efficiency initiative. He also mentioned the possibility of using impoundment to withhold certain funds approved by Congress.
Speaker Johnson Optimistic but Uncertain
House Speaker Mike Johnson described Vance’s message as “very well-received” but acknowledged that most GOP members had already decided their stance. He estimated that only “one or two” holdouts remained ahead of the planned 4 p.m. vote.
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