Government Shutdown Crisis

The potential for a government shutdown looms as House Speaker Mike Johnson's funding bill fails to garner the necessary support. This bill, intended to continue funding through March 14, was criticized for its size and lack of a debt ceiling increase, which President Trump condemned. Following pressure, Johnson proposed a slimmed-down version that still struggled to gain traction, leading to 38 Republican votes against it and prompting discussion about whether the government would indeed shut down at midnight if no agreement was reached. Republican unity is being tested, with alternative plans being debated and an urgent need to address disaster aid and funding for military services hanging in the balance.