U.S. House Approves Stopgap Funding Bill to Avert Shutdown

On September 19, 2025, the Republican-controlled U.S. House of Representatives narrowly approved a stopgap funding bill aimed at preventing a partial government shutdown set to begin on October 1, the start of the new fiscal year. The measure, known as a continuing resolution (CR), passed with a 217-212 vote and seeks to extend current federal funding levels through November 21. It also allocates an additional $88 million to enhance security for Congress, the executive branch, and the Supreme Court, following the recent assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

The vote saw minimal bipartisan support, with only one Democrat, Representative Jared Golden of Maine, siding with the Republican majority. House Speaker Mike Johnson acknowledged the challenges posed by the slim Republican majority of 219-213, stating, "We're going to get this government funded. We're going to keep the funding going and our appropriators will have more time to do their work."

Democrats have criticized the CR as a partisan measure and are advocating for an alternative plan that would fund the government through October 31. Their proposal aims to maintain healthcare tax credits and reverse Medicaid cuts, addressing concerns that millions could lose coverage by 2027 without these provisions. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries emphasized the party's stance, declaring, "We will not support a partisan spending bill that Republicans are trying to jam down the throats of the American people that continues to gut healthcare."

In the Senate, where Republicans hold a 53-47 majority, the path forward remains uncertain. The Senate is set to first consider the Democrats' version of the funding bill before potentially voting on the House-passed CR. Given the requirement of a 60-vote threshold to advance most legislation, both proposals face significant hurdles. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer expressed skepticism about the House bill's prospects, stating, "Americans are tired of the failed, chaotic, high-cost status quo, which decimates their health care, which raises their costs and which Republicans are defending in their bill."

The legislative impasse has raised concerns about a potential government shutdown, with each party accusing the other of brinkmanship. The inclusion of additional security funding in the CR follows heightened concerns after the assassination of Charlie Kirk, underscoring the broader implications of political violence on legislative priorities.

Historically, Congress has resorted to stopgap measures to prevent government shutdowns. For instance, in March 2025, the House passed a short-term funding bill to avert a shutdown, reflecting ongoing challenges in reaching long-term budget agreements.

As the Senate prepares to deliberate on the competing funding proposals, the potential for a government shutdown looms large. The outcome of these negotiations will have significant implications for federal operations, public services, and the millions of Americans who rely on government programs.