President-elect Donald Trump has announced that a new plan has been developed to fund the government and lift the debt ceiling, just one day before a potential government shutdown. Trump is urging Congress to swiftly pass the plan in votes as soon as Thursday evening.
Republicans have indicated that they have reached a tentative agreement after intense closed-door discussions. The new plan would keep the government running for an additional three months, provide disaster assistance for states affected by hurricanes, and allow for increased borrowing until January 30, 2027.
Trump took to social media to share the news, stating, “SUCCESS in Washington! Speaker Mike Johnson and the House have come to a very good Deal.”
However, the next steps remain uncertain, particularly regarding Democratic support, which may be necessary due to opposition from some hardline Republicans. With a government shutdown looming, Speaker Mike Johnson is under pressure to meet Trump’s demands and keep federal offices operational.
Trump’s sudden request to increase the debt limit has added further complexity to the situation, with Johnson facing challenges in finding a resolution while securing his position as Speaker of the House.
Despite the ongoing negotiations, Trump has warned of consequences for Republicans who do not support a bill that addresses the debt ceiling issue. The situation is reminiscent of past challenges in Trump-run Washington, including government shutdowns and legislative standoffs.
As discussions continue, Vice President-elect JD Vance and other key figures are working tirelessly to reach a consensus. The possibility of involving Elon Musk in the negotiations has even been considered as a potential solution.
While efforts are being made to finalize an agreement, the inclusion of a debt ceiling increase remains a sticking point for some Republicans. The current debt limit is set to expire on January 1, 2025, creating additional urgency to address the issue.
With the deadline approaching, lawmakers are racing against time to secure a deal and avoid a government shutdown. The proposed bipartisan compromise includes funding for disaster relief and other key provisions, but it has faced criticism from some conservatives.
Despite the challenges, leaders on both sides are committed to finding a solution that serves the American people. The coming days will be critical in determining the outcome of the negotiations and the future of government funding.
Published – December 20, 2024 03:53 am IST
