Urgent Need for Short-Term Spending Deal as Deadline Approaches

House Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole has indicated that a new short-term spending agreement is increasingly likely as the current continuing resolution (CR) approaches its expiration on November 21, 2023. The existing CR, which was passed on September 19, is nearing the end of its seven-week term, and the ongoing government shutdown, now in its 22nd day, has severely hindered the Appropriations Committee’s ability to finalize the twelve appropriations bills for fiscal year 2026.

Cole emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “We would need another CR because we’ve wasted, so far, four weeks of this one.” He expressed hope that if negotiations could start promptly after the shutdown concludes, lawmakers might still be able to make significant progress. However, he warned that “every day we delay pushes that further out,” highlighting the constricted timeframe for reaching a consensus.

The political landscape surrounding this issue is complex, with Republicans exploring various options, including a potential longer-term CR. While Speaker Mike Johnson did not commit to a long-term solution, he acknowledged the challenges of completing all appropriations on schedule amid the shutdown. Rep. Mike Simpson, chairman of the Interior appropriations subcommittee, voiced similar concerns, noting the wasted time and difficulties in negotiations. He expressed skepticism about a year-long CR, suggesting it may face opposition from Republicans who are hesitant to support a budget aligned with the final year of the Biden administration’s spending plan.

On the other side, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries is pressing for a bipartisan spending agreement, insisting that Republicans must “come to the table” before another CR is considered. This reflects the contrasting approaches between the two parties, as Democrats advocate for full government functionality and immediate negotiations.

The ramifications of these legislative standstills extend beyond budget discussions. The delay has also impacted the swearing-in of Adelita Grijalva, with a lawsuit filed in Arizona addressing the delays caused by Speaker Johnson’s actions. This situation underscores the broader consequences of ongoing political divisions.

As Republicans grapple with the dwindling time for appropriations, fiscal conservatives are pushing for a longer-term CR to limit spending and avoid contentious votes during the holiday season. Cole acknowledged the sensitivity of the timing, emphasizing the desire to produce a well-vetted, bipartisan bill to prevent “jamming” lawmakers into difficult decisions close to Christmas.

The complexities of the current budget situation highlight the challenges lawmakers face in navigating political divisions. As the deadline approaches, the need for collaboration becomes increasingly critical to ensure effective government functioning and address the pressing needs of the American populace.

The coming weeks will be pivotal, as decisions made during this period will have lasting implications for federal funding, the operation of government agencies, and the overall economic stability of the nation. A short-term CR seems to be the most likely solution, merely postponing budget decisions while highlighting the significant challenges posed by current political dynamics.