House passes spending bill to head off government shutdown before midterms

The US House of Representatives passed a stopgap spending bill to prevent a government shutdown until December 4. This measure, approved by a vote of 220-205, aims to remove a potentially contentious issue before the November midterm elections. Republican leaders pushed for its passage to avoid Senate Democrats blocking funding measures. The bill now moves to the Senate, where bipartisan support is required. The current government spending authority expires on September 30. While the House has passed some appropriations bills, the Senate has not advanced any, leading to the need for this continuing resolution.

House Republicans are proposing a bill to fund the federal government through December 4th, months before the September 30th deadline, to prevent a shutdown before the midterm elections. Speaker Mike Johnson is challenging Democrats to pass the measure, stating they will be responsible for any resulting government shutdown. This early action is unusual, as Congress typically waits until closer to the deadline. The GOP also plans to advance a separate bill focusing on defense, farm aid, and election reforms. Democrats are expected to oppose the stopgap bill, citing a lack of bipartisan negotiation and the desire for more comprehensive legislation. Republicans believe avoiding a shutdown is politically advantageous and prevents the chaos seen in previous shutdowns. The bill's passage in the Senate is uncertain, as it requires bipartisan support.