Senate Democrats find themselves at a critical juncture, torn between endorsing a spending bill put forward by House Republicans or plunging into the shutdown scenario they have consistently opposed.
This dilemma demands a prompt resolution as House GOP leaders are set to present a bill early next week that largely maintains current spending levels until September’s end. Democrats express disapproval of this strategy, citing concerns that it could grant excessive authority to President Donald Trump and Elon Musk in reallocating approved funds without congressional consent.
The House Standpoint
Meanwhile, House Democrats assert their stance by refusing to provide support, asserting that the responsibility lies with Republicans to garner votes for a continuing resolution (CR) after halting negotiations with the minority party.
Senate Dynamics
Conversely, the Senate exhibits a more cautious approach, refraining from outright opposition to a relatively ‘clean’ stopgap bill before the March 14 shutdown deadline. Leaders advise members to maintain silence, compelling Republicans to devise an acceptable plan.
Senator Dick Durbin, the Senate’s second-ranking Democrat, suggests that there isn’t sufficient Democratic support for a seven-month stopgap yet, underscoring the need for at least eight GOP votes, excluding Senator Rand Paul’s potential opposition.
When pressed about opposing the bill as a last resort before the deadline, Durbin defers judgment, emphasizing the need to evaluate the House’s decision first.
Democrats’ Dilemma
Although some Democrats express dissent, Republicans secure support from Senator John Fetterman, who adamantly opposes any actions leading to a government shutdown.
While several Senate Democrats refrain from committing to vote against a shutdown-preventing bill, they seek assurance that it’s the sole option to avert funding lapse and await confirmation of Speaker Mike Johnson’s ability to navigate it through the House.
Seeking Consensus
A bipartisan Senate group explores an alternative if the House fails to approve the stopgap bill, highlighting the preference for a funding approach accommodating senior appropriators nearing a consensus on updated agency funding levels.
Democrats propose a four- to five-week stopgap to facilitate the appropriators’ negotiations. However, House Republicans favor extending current funding levels till the fiscal year ends.
Anticipated House Action
Senate Appropriations Chair Susan Collins anticipates the House passing a full-year CR or attempting to do so, indicating reluctance towards a shorter stopgap.
Despite the ongoing discussions, the House seems inclined towards continuing current funding levels, raising uncertainties about the Senate’s future course of action.
