Top U.S. Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer has expressed his cautious support for a short-term funding bill proposed by House Republicans. The bill aims to keep the U.S. government operational beyond the upcoming weekend. Schumer emphasized that any legislation extending government funding must avoid drastic spending cuts and “poison pills” demanded by hardline Republicans. He also acknowledged his satisfaction with Speaker Mike Johnson’s apparent shift in approach. Johnson’s proposal, known as a continuing resolution (CR), seeks to maintain spending at fiscal year 2023 levels until January and February for different government sectors. Schumer acknowledged that the speaker’s plan is not perfect but commended its avoidance of significant budget cuts. While hardline Republicans have rejected the proposal due to the absence of steep spending reductions, Schumer’s tentative support implies that Johnson may be able to secure Democratic votes to pass the CR even if he loses support from his own party.
Schumer, Top US Senate Democrat, Expresses Tentative Support for Republican Short-Term Funding Bill
