As Congress returns from Thanksgiving break in December, they will have a limited timeframe to approve continued government spending beyond the Dec. 20 deadline. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer emphasized the need for bipartisan cooperation to prevent a government shutdown just before Christmas, calling it 'asinine' and urging both sides to work together.
While most appropriations bills have passed through committee, Schumer has yet to bring them to the Senate floor for a vote. This delay has led to speculation that lawmakers may resort to a short-term stopgap spending bill to extend funding into the new year.
House Speaker Mike Johnson has criticized Schumer's inaction on individual appropriations bills, suggesting that a Continuing Resolution (CR) may be necessary to avoid a shutdown. However, some Republicans, like Sen. Mike Lee, have voiced opposition to a large omnibus bill and are urging constituents to contact their representatives.
If Congress fails to pass a stopgap bill or appropriations package by Dec. 20, the government could face a partial shutdown until funding is secured. The outcome of these negotiations will have significant implications for the 2025 fiscal year, with Democrats currently holding the Senate majority and President Joe Biden in office.
As the deadline approaches, the focus remains on finding a solution that both parties can agree on to ensure the government remains operational and essential services continue uninterrupted.
