As Congress returns to Washington, the clock is ticking to prevent a government shutdown. With the 2024 fiscal year ending on September 30, legislators have limited time to pass new funding legislation. The upcoming November elections further complicate the situation, making the discussions over federal financing even more critical.

The Current Situation

Congress is considering a stopgap funding bill, known as a continuing resolution (CR), to maintain current operations and buy more time to finalize annual spending bills. However, political divisions are already evident. President Joe Biden and Congressional Democrats have rejected House Speaker Mike Johnson’s (R-La.) proposal for a six-month CR paired with legislation requiring proof of citizenship to vote in federal elections.



Key Points of Contention

  • Johnson’s Proposal: The proposed CR would last until March 28 and include the noncitizen voting measure, which passed the House in July. Biden has threatened to veto this proposal, and it faces opposition from senior House Republicans.
  • Democrats' Stance: Democrats prefer a CR that extends just past the November elections, allowing for more flexible negotiations in an end-of-year session.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) criticized Johnson's approach, stating that extreme MAGA Republicans lack the leverage to pass appropriations bills on their own.



The Stakes


A government shutdown would have widespread implications, affecting federal employees, government contractors, and public services. The CR debate also touches on broader issues, such as:

  • Veterans Affairs: The Department of Veterans Affairs requires an additional $15 billion for benefits and care for military members affected by toxic burn pits.
  • Infrastructure: Both parties support funding to rebuild Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge and other failing roadways, potentially costing up to $3.1 billion.


Political Calculations

The upcoming elections add another layer of complexity. Both parties are eyeing control of Congress and the White House:

  • Democrats: A March deadline could allow Democrats to control funding bills if they win the majority in the House, Senate, and retain the presidency.

  • Republicans: Republicans also see an opportunity to solidify their legislative priorities with a later deadline.


Rep. Rosa DeLauro (Conn.), the top Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee, emphasized the importance of a CR that ends in December, stating it is better for national security, military readiness, and disaster recovery.







What’s Next?

The relative calm in the spending debate is tenuous, with election momentum potentially altering the political calculus. As both parties prepare for a possible showdown, the stakes are high for the future of federal financing and government operations.