Congress Passes Stopgap Bill to Avert Shutdown Amid GOP Divisions

Speaker Mike Johnson's leadership faces scrutiny as the funding bill excludes Trump's debt ceiling demands and secures bipartisan support.

A last-minute government funding bill passed Congress, preventing a shutdown and securing federal operations until March 14, 2025.
The bill includes $100 billion for disaster aid and $10 billion in agricultural assistance but excludes President-elect Trump's push for a debt ceiling increase.
Speaker Mike Johnson faced internal GOP criticism over his handling of negotiations, raising questions about his ability to lead in the next Congress.
Democrats claim victory for blocking efforts to suspend the debt ceiling, while some Republicans accuse Johnson of relying too heavily on Democratic votes.
Elon Musk's influence in the process, as a key Trump ally, has drawn criticism from Democrats, who argue his involvement undermines democratic governance.