A group of conservative lawmakers in the House and Senate are cautioning Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune against agreeing to restrict the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in a spending bill as the government shutdown deadline of March 14 approaches.
Sen. Rick Scott and House Freedom Caucus Chairman Andy Harris, along with 19 other Republicans, expressed concerns about Democrats' demands for a funding agreement that could perpetuate wasteful spending. They emphasized the importance of upholding the President's authority to save taxpayer dollars.
Scott, the new chairman of the Republican Senate Steering Committee, highlighted their readiness to work with leadership to keep the government open but stressed their opposition to any package that could be used against President Trump.
Speaker Johnson reiterated the need for a clean continuing resolution (CR) to avoid tying the President's hands and limiting his authority. President Trump also weighed in on the situation, urging Congress to pass a temporary funding bill.
The House Freedom Caucus and the Senate Steering Committee have historically advocated for conservative positions and challenged GOP leadership when necessary. With the shutdown deadline looming, negotiations between Republicans and Democrats are ongoing.
Democrats are pushing for assurances that appropriated funds are spent as intended, potentially leading to provisions that could restrict DOGE. Securing bipartisan support will be crucial to passing a spending bill and avoiding a partial government shutdown.
As tensions rise over government spending and efficiency measures, both parties are working to find common ground before the deadline. The outcome of these negotiations will have significant implications for the federal budget and operations.
