CBS News - Where Biden stands with government shutdown looming after bipartisan spending deal tanked
Lawmakers on Capitol Hill are racing against a midnight deadline to prevent a government shutdown. A Trump-backed proposal failed to pass in the House, and the White House remains publicly quiet while monitoring the situation. The rejected deal lacked elements necessary for Democratic support, and bipartisan cooperation is crucial due to the closely divided Congress. Republicans have shown no intention to negotiate, complicating the situation further. The White House indicates that President Biden is not directly involved, viewing the issue as a Republican-created problem. The administration suggests passing a bipartisan plan, which Biden would sign. The impasse raises concerns about future legislative negotiations, especially with a new Congress taking control in January. The situation highlights the challenges of passing spending bills without bipartisan support, as some Republicans oppose short-term deals that increase the deficit.
Key Points:
- Lawmakers have until midnight to prevent a government shutdown, with negotiations stalled.
- A Trump-backed proposal failed in the House, lacking Democratic support elements.
- Bipartisanship is essential due to the closely divided Congress, but Republicans refuse to negotiate.
- President Biden is not directly involved, viewing the issue as a Republican problem.
- The impasse raises concerns about future legislative negotiations and the new Congress.