NBC News - Trump denounces massive spending bill, pushing government closer to shutdown
President-elect Trump has disrupted a bipartisan spending deal crafted by House Speaker Mike Johnson, which aimed to keep the federal government open through March of the following year. Trump insists on a streamlined spending bill that doesn't fully accommodate Democratic demands. The original bill included $100 billion for disaster aid, $10 billion for farmers, healthcare reforms, and pay raises for Congress members, which faced conservative backlash. Elon Musk criticized lawmakers supporting the bill. Vice President-elect Vance supports a clean continuing resolution (CR) with a debt limit increase. Meanwhile, the House Ethics Committee plans to release a report on former Congressman Matt Gaetz, who faces allegations of sexual misconduct and drug use, which he denies. The Justice Department closed its investigation without charges. Speaker Johnson must now devise a new plan, potentially alienating some Democrats.
Key Points:
- Trump demands a streamlined spending bill, rejecting the current bipartisan deal.
- The original bill included significant funding for disaster aid and farmers, but faced conservative opposition.
- Elon Musk criticized lawmakers supporting the bill, suggesting they should be voted out.
- The House Ethics Committee will release a report on Matt Gaetz, who denies misconduct allegations.
- Speaker Johnson needs a new plan to avoid a government shutdown, risking Democratic support.