

Why the Government is About to Shut Down
37 snips Sep 29, 2023
Carl Hulse, the Chief Washington correspondent for The New York Times, dives deep into the escalating showdown between House Republicans and Speaker Kevin McCarthy. He discusses how a faction of hard-right conservatives is pushing for a government shutdown, complicating bipartisan negotiations. The potential consequences are dire, affecting federal workers and critical services. Hulse analyzes Biden's strategy to minimize blame and highlights the growing frustration among the public regarding congressional inaction amid political chaos.
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McCarthy's Concessions
- Kevin McCarthy made concessions to around 20 hard-right Republicans to secure his speakership.
- These promises included returning federal spending to pre-COVID levels, a key point of contention now.
Motion to Vacate
- McCarthy agreed to a motion to vacate rule, allowing a single Republican to challenge his speakership.
- This rule empowers the far-right and makes McCarthy vulnerable.
Debt Ceiling Deal
- During the debt ceiling debate, McCarthy prioritized the nation's financial health over pleasing hard-right Republicans.
- The deal passed with more Democratic votes, angering the far-right.