House Speaker Mike Johnson and his GOP leadership team are in talks about a targeted spending package aimed at pressuring Democrats to accept a debt limit deal without concessions. This move sets the stage for a high-stakes confrontation even before Donald Trump assumes office.
The proposed plan includes a 'clean' debt limit and a mostly 'clean' stopgap bill, with only disaster relief and farm aid attached. Notably, it excludes previously agreed-upon provisions related to the Baltimore bridge and RFK stadium.
Johnson is working to rally support for this strategy within the GOP, although some members are hesitant to address the debt limit at this time. Democrats, on the other hand, find the proposed framework challenging to accept, potentially complicating its passage in the GOP-led House.
The plan, developed during late-night discussions with senior spending leaders and conservatives, is still subject to change as negotiations continue.
Some Republicans view this as a potential solution for Johnson, who has faced criticism within the party for his recent dealings with Democrats. House Majority Whip Tom Emmer refrained from confirming whether the GOP would address the debt limit in the spending plan or if a bill would be presented for a vote today.
Emmer emphasized the fluidity of the situation, indicating uncertainty about members' ability to adjourn for the Christmas break. The evolving nature of the proposed spending plan underscores the complexity of the political landscape as both parties navigate critical fiscal decisions.
