Congressman Mike Lawler discusses the complexities of passing a continuing resolution (CR) in a divided government, emphasizing the necessity of bipartisan support. He highlights that Democrats control the Senate and the White House, making it essential for both parties to collaborate to pass any legislation. Lawler is against a government shutdown, stating it creates chaos without solving fiscal issues. He criticizes the current process of handling appropriations, suggesting that completing appropriations work for the fiscal year would be more effective than relying on CRs. Lawler also points out the lack of progress in the Senate, where no appropriations bills have been passed, and stresses the importance of returning to a regular appropriations process. He supports the Speaker of the House and calls for bipartisan negotiation, acknowledging that compromise is necessary in a divided government.