Post Reports Musk and Trump bring shutdown chaos to Congress
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Dec 19, 2024 Marianna Sotomayor, a Congressional reporter for The Washington Post, dives into the chaos surrounding the government shutdown ignited by Elon Musk and Donald Trump. The discussion reveals how Musk's vehement social media critiques derailed bipartisan efforts led by House Speaker Mike Johnson. They explore the unexpected power dynamic created by billionaires influencing politics, and the repercussions this turmoil could have on everyday Americans. The insights spotlight the fractures within the Republican Party amidst growing tensions.
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Shutdown Drama
- Republicans initially drafted a bipartisan bill to avoid a government shutdown.
- Elon Musk and Donald Trump publicly condemned the bill, leading to its rejection.
Government Funding Challenges
- Congress struggles to fund the government due to a broken budget process.
- The House and Senate haven't passed budgets regularly, leading to last-minute deals and extensions.
Musk and Trump's Influence
- Elon Musk's and Donald Trump's opposition to the initial funding bill significantly influenced House Republicans.
- Many Republicans already disliked the bill, and Musk and Trump's criticism empowered them to voice their dissent.