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House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., is racing to finalize a bipartisan short-term funding bill to prevent a government shutdown, with the clock ticking down to Friday’s midnight deadline.
Despite earlier plans to release the bill’s text over the weekend, Johnson now expects the document to be unveiled on Tuesday, leaving lawmakers little time to review it before voting.
“We’re almost there,” Johnson told reporters at a news conference. He confirmed the legislation would fund the government through March 14, include disaster relief, and allocate $10 billion in aid to farmers.
Johnson emphasized adherence to the 72-hour rule, which allows lawmakers time to read the bill before a vote, potentially pushing the decision right up to the deadline. “We do expect text today,” he said, adding that he’s working to secure majority Republican support.
Meanwhile, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., expressed cautious optimism about the progress in negotiations but underscored the urgency. “There continues to be good progress, but appropriators are still working on finalizing an agreement,” Schumer said on the Senate floor.
Some provisions, including a controversial measure to overhaul laws around pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), remain sticking points. Conservative House members have voiced sharp criticism of the process and Speaker Johnson’s leadership.
Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, decried the last-minute negotiations, tweeting, “This is not the way to do things.” Rep. Eric Burlison, R-Mo., was even more scathing, calling the emerging legislation “a total dumpster fire.”
“I think it’s garbage,” Burlison said, expressing frustration at the lack of communication and delayed text. Asked if his discontent might affect his support for Johnson’s re-election as speaker next month, Burlison declined to comment.
Johnson, who will face a re-election vote as speaker on Jan. 3 with an even slimmer Republican majority, remained unfazed. “I’m not worried about the speaker vote,” he said. “We’re governing. Everybody knows we have difficult circumstances. We’re doing the very best we can under those circumstances.”
The stakes are high as the Dec. 20 funding deadline approaches, coinciding with lawmakers’ plans to adjourn for the holidays. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La., expressed confidence in Johnson’s efforts, assuring reporters the chamber would pass a bill to keep the government open and address urgent issues like disaster relief and agricultural aid.
“We have a lot to do the rest of this week,” Scalise said. “But we all look forward to getting back home to our families and enjoying a great Christmas as we get ready for what will be a very busy and productive New Year.”
