Prospects of Shutdown Increase as Options Narrow for House GOP

Last updated Sep 20, 2023

TL/DR –

With 10 days left to avert a US government shutdown, the Congress has not yet found a viable path forward. A potential breakthrough in the form of a House GOP deal was shot down by opposition, and a continuing resolution vote was scrapped. This has led to speculation that a government shutdown is increasingly likely, particularly as a group of conservatives are reportedly refusing to support a continuing resolution without major concessions, while others are blocking broad progress on appropriations bills.

Congress Struggles to Avert Government Shutdown With Just 10 Days Left

A government shutdown is imminent as Congress hasn’t found a path to resolve the issue with only 10 days left. The House, under Speaker Kevin McCarthy, is currently deadlocked following a conservative revolt, leaving the government’s funding future uncertain.

Massachusetts Democrat Rep. Jim McGovern criticized the lack of progress, stating, “They’re letting the clowns run the circus. Time is running out.”

Last week, hard-line conservatives blocked progress on a House GOP deal aimed at preventing the shutdown. This deal between pragmatic Republicans and conservatives would keep the government funded through October. However, the proposal faced severe backlash, thwarting its chances.

As a response, GOP leaders have been rallying their conference behind the continuing resolution. This includes an 8% cut to non-defense spending and border policies passed by the House earlier this year. Despite this, the resolution vote was abandoned on Tuesday, and the defense spending bill vote failed soon after.

Democrats criticized Republicans’ approach on Tuesday, warning that their extreme actions risk a government shutdown. “They’re willing to force a MAGA shutdown if they don’t get their way,” said Rep. Susan Delbene, a Washington Democrat.

Frustration from House Freedom Caucus members appears to put McCarthy in a difficult position. Some conservatives have hinted they’d let the government shut down if their demands aren’t met. This threat puts McCarthy at risk of losing his position if he seeks support from Democrats.

An alleged motion for McCarthy’s removal sponsored by Rep. Matt Gaetz was found in a Capitol bathroom, fueling speculation about his future.

Meanwhile, senators expressed heightened concern as the funding deadline approaches. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell voiced his aversion to government shutdowns, noting their lack of policy change and negative political impact for Republicans.

Senaate appropriations hit a roadblock last week when conservatives blocked a package of spending bills. Despite this, the Senate is expected to advance the minibus later this week for shutdown-averting moves.

Majority Leader Chuck Schumer maintained, “our first job is to get the House to pass something. We’ll see if they can.”