The US House votes to avert government shutdown by passing a budget deal to prevent what would have been the first US federal government shutdown since 2019. The vote, which concluded at 366-34, came just six hours before the midnight deadline. The proposed deal now awaits approval by the Democratic-controlled Senate before President Joe Biden can sign it into law.
This last-minute agreement highlights the ongoing tensions within the US political landscape. Earlier in the week, negotiations for a government funding deal collapsed after interventions from President-elect Donald Trump and tech billionaire Elon Musk, who urged Republicans to reject the proposal. This marks the third attempt this week to finalize a deal after a Trump-backed funding measure failed on Thursday.
The American Relief Act, 2025
The passed legislation, known as the “American Relief Act, 2025,” comprises 118 pages and excludes contentious provisions like the debt-limit clause that Trump had advocated. Democrats also saw some of their proposed measures removed, such as:
- The first pay raise for lawmakers since 2009.
- Federal funds to rebuild a collapsed bridge in Baltimore.
- Healthcare reforms.
- Provisions aimed at curbing deceptive advertising by hotels and live event venues.
Despite the cuts, all Democrats in attendance supported the bill, while 34 Republicans opposed it.
Reactions from Key Players
President Joe Biden praised the deal, describing it as a crucial step to avert a shutdown. Meanwhile, criticism arose over Elon Musk’s involvement in the negotiations. Democrats noted that Musk, an unelected billionaire, played a significant role in opposing earlier versions of the bill. Musk, who has been tasked by Trump to oversee government spending cuts in his upcoming administration, heavily lobbied against the prior proposals.
House Speaker Mike Johnson, facing criticism from members of his party, expressed relief after the bill’s passage. Speaking to reporters, he emphasized the importance of unity and credited his frequent consultations with both Trump and Musk for the outcome. Musk later commended Johnson’s efforts on X, stating, “The Speaker did a good job here, given the circumstances.”
Implications of a Government Shutdown
The specter of a government shutdown loomed large as lawmakers deliberated. Without a funding deal, millions of federal employees would have faced unpaid work during the holiday season. Essential services, including disaster recovery aid and support for farmers, would have been severely impacted. The last shutdown in 2019, which lasted 35 days, was the longest in US history.
Looking Ahead
The dramatic budget negotiations provide a glimpse into the potential legislative challenges that await when Trump assumes office and Republicans take control of Congress next year. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the passage of this deal underscores the complexities of bipartisan cooperation in Washington.
- External Link: BBC News
- Internal Link: Eurasia Sports
