HOUSE GOP STUNS WASHINGTON: JOHNSON PUSHES TRUMP’S FUNDING PLAN THROUGH AMID FAR-RIGHT BACKLASH
WASHINGTON — In a dramatic and politically charged showdown, Speaker Mike Johnson managed to push President Donald Trump’s controversial government funding plan through the House on Tuesday, overcoming resistance from far-right conservatives as Republicans scramble to prevent a government shutdown just days away.
A Nail-Biter Vote with GOP Defiance
The House passed the stopgap bill 217-213, with just one Republican, Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky, standing in opposition. Now, the pressure shifts to Senate Democrats—will they concede to Trump’s demands, or will they risk triggering a government shutdown?
High Stakes, High Drama
In a bold strategic move, House Republicans immediately left Washington after the vote, effectively daring Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and his Democratic allies to accept the bill or face the consequences of a shutdown. To pass the measure, at least eight Senate Democrats must side with the GOP—an unlikely scenario given that the bill lacks the concessions Democrats have been fighting for.
Trump’s Full-Court Press to Win the Vote
The victory was far from guaranteed. Johnson and his team deployed a relentless campaign to rally votes, with personal calls from Trump himself, Vice President JD Vance, and even Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Their message was clear: failure to pass the bill would be a direct blow to Trump’s momentum, especially on key issues like border security.
Conservatives Win Billions in Cuts – But At What Cost?
Despite their usual opposition to stopgap funding, even some of the GOP’s most hardline conservatives fell in line. The bill slashes $13 billion in domestic spending, targeting earmarks and one-time expenditures, but also includes language some on the right opposed, such as provisions shielding Trump’s tariffs on Canada and Mexico from a direct repeal vote.
Massie Stands Alone – And Doubts Trump’s Power
Rep. Thomas Massie, the lone Republican holdout, shrugged off Trump’s threats of a primary challenge, dismissing them as mere tactics to keep other Republicans in line. “They don’t even call me,” Massie scoffed, signaling that he remains unmoved by the party’s pressure campaign.
What Happens Next?
Senate Democrats will meet Wednesday to determine their next move. With the shutdown deadline looming on March 14, they must decide whether to cave to House Republicans’ aggressive maneuvering or stand firm and risk political fallout. One thing is certain—this battle is far from over.
