US Congress Faces Deadline to Avoid Government Shutdown Amid Other Legislative Battles
TL/DR –
Lawmakers in Washington are looking to avoid another government shutdown as they deal with increased health care costs and the conflict with Venezuela. Efforts to extend the Affordable Care Act’s enhanced premium tax credits are part of the debate and have led to disagreement among political parties. Meanwhile, the handling of the Epstein files, related to the notorious sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, by the Justice Department is under scrutiny and tensions with Venezuela over unauthorized military actions are escalating.
As lawmakers reconvene in Washington this week, the looming deadline to prevent another government shutdown takes precedence. The upcoming funding fight follows a revolt from moderate Republicans over health care costs and escalating tensions with Venezuela.
After a record-breaking 43-day shutdown last year, funding the government is top of Congress’ agenda. Most agencies and programs only received temporary funding, due to expire Jan. 30. Congress must approve new funding or face a partial shutdown.
Funding the Government
The top GOP lawmakers in the Senate and House, Sen. Susan Collins and Rep. Tom Cole, announced a spending agreement before Christmas. The initial ‘minibus’ legislation proposes funding for science, Departments of Commerce and Justice, energy and water development, and the Department of Interior and EPA.
While progress is being made, potential obstacles remain. Democratic approval will be necessary for passage in both the Senate and the House. The departure of GOP Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene will also leave House Speaker Mike Johnson with a tight two-vote margin.
In case of a stall in passing the long-term measures, another short-term resolution may be pursued. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer remains optimistic, stating that a shutdown was unlikely and progress was being made on bipartisan negotiations.
Health Care
Democrats are continuing the fight to extend the Affordable Care Act’s enhanced premium tax credits. A proposal to extend the tax credits for three years without reforms came short in the Senate but gained support from moderate House Republicans. The House is expected to vote on this matter soon.
Epstein Files Release
The return of Congress will also bring new pressure on the Justice Department regarding the release of files relating to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Lawmakers are drafting a resolution to hold Attorney General Pam Bondi in “inherent contempt” of Congress over this issue.
So far, the Justice Department has released thousands of documents, believed to be a small fraction of the Epstein files. More documents related to the case have been discovered, with release to take place over “a few more weeks”.
Conflict with Venezuela
The U.S.’s escalated military campaign against Venezuela is also a notable issue, especially after the capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife announced by President Trump. Congressional approval for this military action was not obtained beforehand.
Due to this, several lawmakers have sought to limit Mr. Trump’s authority to strike Venezuela. However, Senate and House have failed twice to limit Mr. Trump’s authority for the military campaign.
Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine is advocating for his latest war powers resolution to be voted on this week, demanding the removal of U.S. Armed Forces from hostilities within Venezuela without Congressional authorization. He described the military action as “an illegal war”.
—
Read More US Political News