Trump allies on Capitol Hill are considering drastic measures in response to Donald Trump's criminal conviction. Republican Marjorie Taylor Greene suggested that House Speaker Mike Johnson should shut down the government following the guilty verdict. Additionally, House Judiciary Chair Jim Jordan has proposed defunding what he deems as politicized prosecutions.
These efforts are not entirely new, as some members like Jim Jordan have been discussing similar strategies for several years. Last year, Jordan attempted to block funding for projects such as the new FBI headquarters through amendments on spending bills. However, these attempts were unsuccessful on the House floor, leading to challenges in passing Republican-only spending bills and resulting in a compromise with Democrats to fund the government.
Recently, Jim Jordan sent a letter to the appropriations chairman, Tom Cole, outlining his requests, which include cutting funding for what they perceive as weaponized prosecutions and the new FBI headquarters. The argument put forth by these Republicans is that funding should be allocated solely for the FBI's core responsibilities, as defined by the party.
Some senators, including one from North Dakota, support Jordan's efforts, claiming that the Department of Justice (DOJ) is treating Donald Trump unfairly. On the other hand, Democrats view these actions as Republicans rushing to support their political ally without valid cause, asserting that the DOJ is operating fairly.