In the early hours of Saturday, the U.S. Congress approved a $1.2 trillion budget bill to fund federal agencies until September 30, averting a partial shutdown. The bill, passed by a 74-24 vote, provides funding for key departments like Homeland Security, Justice, State, and Treasury.
, the bill does not include funding for military aid to Ukraine, Taiwan, and Israel, which was part of a separate Senate bill that the Republican-led House did not take up.
Despite its passage, the bill revealed deep divisions among Republicans in the House. Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene opposed the bill and threatened to challenge Speaker Mike Johnson’s leadership for allowing its approval. However, Johnson managed to past strong opposition and secure bipartisan support for the bill.
Supporters of the bill, such as Republican Senator Susan Collins, emphasized its importance for national security, with a significant portion allocated to defense enhancements, military support, and strengthening alliances.
Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer shakes hands with former Speaker of the House (Via Kate Warner/Getty Images)
Critics, including Senator Rand Paul, criticized the bill as financially reckless, expressing concerns about inflation and excessive government spending.
The bill’s approval ends months of relying on short-term funding measures, signaling a shift from recurring government funding crises. The last partial government shutdown occurred during Donald Trump’s presidency due to disputes over border wall funding.
Greene’s attempt to challenge Johnson’s leadership highlighted internal divisions within the Republican Party but did not lead to an immediate vote, underscoring ongoing tensions within the party.
Speaker Johnson faces ongoing challenges, especially as the departure of two caucus members could narrow his majority. With the budget bill passed, Congress adjourns for a two-week break, delaying further decisions on critical security aid for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan.
