Former U.S. President Donald Trump is working with House Republicans on a plan to extend government funding through September, aiming to avoid a shutdown as budget negotiations intensify. The move signals Trump’s growing influence over GOP lawmakers, as they seek a deal that aligns with his policy priorities ahead of the 2024 elections.
Republican leaders in the House have been in discussions with Trump, who has urged them to push for spending cuts and policy provisions that reflect his agenda. While some factions within the party favor a short-term extension, the current plan focuses on securing funding through the end of the fiscal year, providing more stability for federal agencies.
The negotiations come as Congress faces a deadline to pass a funding bill and prevent a potential shutdown. Democrats and the White House are likely to push back against efforts to include conservative policy riders in the legislation, setting the stage for a tense political showdown.
Trump’s direct involvement adds a new layer of complexity to the talks, as House Speaker Mike Johnson and other GOP leaders work to bridge divisions within their party while also securing enough support to pass a bill in the Senate. Moderate Republicans and Democrats could play a crucial role in determining the final outcome.
While some lawmakers see the push for a longer-term funding solution as a way to avoid repeated brinkmanship, others argue that a short-term extension would provide more leverage for conservatives in future negotiations. The outcome of these talks could shape the broader budget debate heading into the presidential election.
With time running out, Congress will need to move quickly to finalize a deal and avoid disruptions to government operations. All eyes are now on Republican leadership and how they navigate both internal party tensions and bipartisan negotiations in the days ahead.
