The U.S. government hurtled toward a shutdown after a dramatic 24-hour standoff that revealed a deep divide between President-elect Donald Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson. A bipartisan funding deal collapsed under pressure from Trump and his billionaire ally Elon Musk, throwing Washington into turmoil just hours before the deadline.
Trump and Musk: The Unlikely Alliance
Trump, who has long supported Johnson, shocked many in the GOP by turning against a short-term government funding bill on Wednesday. With Musk amplifying the criticism on social media, Trump labeled the deal “criminal” and threatened primary challenges against Republicans who backed it.
Musk’s posts unleashed a torrent of backlash, drawing attention to controversial provisions, including a proposed pay raise for lawmakers. By Wednesday afternoon, the bill was in jeopardy, as Musk’s influence over Trump became a focal point of debate.
The Collapsed Deal
The proposed legislation aimed to keep the government running for three months, extend the debt ceiling through 2027, and allocate $110 billion in disaster relief. Despite negotiations, the bill failed to secure enough Republican support, with 38 GOP members voting against it. The defeat underscored Johnson’s struggle to unify his party amid Trump’s last-minute demands for a comprehensive, long-term funding solution.
Debt Ceiling Dispute Adds Complexity
A major sticking point was Trump’s sudden insistence on addressing the debt ceiling before he takes office. Previously considered a mid-2024 issue, Trump argued for its immediate inclusion to eliminate a potential bargaining chip for Democrats. This abrupt shift blindsided Republican lawmakers and added another layer of complexity to the negotiations.
Trump’s Vision: A Clean Slate for 2024
During discussions with Johnson at the Army-Navy football game, Trump emphasized his desire for a full-year spending plan, free from contentious debates. Sources close to the president-elect revealed his aim to start his term with a “clean slate,” focusing on his legislative agenda without lingering fiscal battles.
Musk’s Role in the Breakdown
Musk’s opposition to the bill was pivotal. Starting early Wednesday, he criticized the deal on social media, calling it a giveaway to Democrats. Trump and Musk reportedly discussed their concerns before Musk’s posts gained traction, intensifying GOP resistance.
Johnson Faces Growing Pressure
The bill’s failure has left Johnson scrambling to find a new solution. After Thursday’s vote, where the revised plan failed 174-235, Johnson pledged to regroup. However, the fallout has raised questions about his leadership and ability to navigate the fractured Republican conference.
Democrats Stand Firm
House Democrats, led by Hakeem Jeffries, refused to support the revised plan, calling it unserious and inadequate. They stood by the original bipartisan agreement, dismissing Trump’s demands as unreasonable.
A Preview of 2024 Turbulence
The chaotic events highlight the challenges Republicans face with Trump’s return to the White House and control of Congress. The episode echoes past shutdowns during Trump’s first term, suggesting a rocky road ahead for fiscal negotiations.
With the government on the brink of closure, Johnson must now balance Trump’s expectations, Musk’s influence, and a deeply divided Congress. As the midnight deadline looms, the nation watches for the next chapter in this unfolding drama.
