House Democrats expressed strong disapproval of the new GOP government funding measure, not due to its contents but rather the process by which it was developed. The criticism was directed at Elon Musk and House Speaker Mile Johnson for reneging on a previously agreed-upon deal.
During a caucus meeting, Democrats were heard chanting “hell no” and there were instances of laughter and applause. Representative Jamie Raskin condemned the actions, stating that the agreement reached by Senate Democrats, Senate Republicans, House Democrats, and House Republicans was disrupted by Elon Musk, whom he referred to as an unofficial fourth branch of government.
Representative Richard Neal, the ranking member of the Ways and Means Committee, announced that he would not support the new GOP funding measure. He highlighted that Democrats had already reached a bipartisan agreement on a continuing resolution that had benefits for both sides.
Neal emphasized the importance of collaboration between Congress and the President, stating that the disrupted agreement had been carefully crafted with mutual gains in mind. He expressed disappointment at the veto that followed the agreement.
The situation underscores the challenges of bipartisan cooperation in the legislative process and the impact of external influences on decision-making. Democrats are now strategizing on how to salvage the public interest amidst the fallout from the disrupted agreement.
