As the government shutdown deadline looms this Friday, Vice President J.D. Vance addressed House Republicans in a closed-door meeting on March 11, urging unity behind a continuing resolution (CR) to fund the government through September 30.
The proposed CR maintains fiscal year 2024 spending levels, incorporating $13 billion in non-discretionary spending cuts, a $6 billion increase in military funding, and additional allocations for border enforcement.
Vance emphasized that passing the CR is crucial to sustaining President Donald Trump’s border security initiatives and the operations of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). One of the lawmakers in the closed-door meeting shared: “Vance basically said this is what we need to keep DOGE and border operations going.”
House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed optimism about securing sufficient Republican support to pass the bill without relying on Democratic votes. He asserted, “We’ll have the votes,” indicating a strong push for party unity to avert a shutdown.
The CR proposes significant fiscal measures, including doubling a previous $20.2 billion cut in Internal Revenue Service enforcement funding. If made permanent, this reduction could lower the number of audits and decrease federal revenue by $66 billion over a decade, according to the Congressional Budget Office.
Additionally, the bill imposes restrictions on spending by the District of Columbia government, potentially leading to a $1 billion, or 16%, reduction in spending for the remainder of the current fiscal year. While the district has home rule, Congress retains ultimate authority over its finances.
House Democrats have largely opposed the CR, citing concerns over the lack of safeguards against federal layoffs and cost-cutting measures. They have proposed a shorter extension to allow more detailed appropriations, aiming to ensure that federal funding is allocated effectively.
Vance’s appeal to House Republicans underscores the administration’s commitment to border security and government efficiency. By rallying support for the CR, the administration aims to maintain momentum on these priorities while preventing a disruptive government shutdown.
