WASHINGTON, D.C. – After House Republicans passed a six-month continuing resolution (CR) to fund the government, Speaker Mike Johnson called on Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to take action, warning that failure to do so could lead to a government shutdown.
Speaking on Fox & Friends and CNBC’s Squawk Box, Johnson framed the vote as a test of Schumer’s leadership, stating:
“Is he going to cast a vote to keep the government open? Or is he going to be blamed for shutting it down?”
Johnson emphasized that the House passed a clean funding bill to ensure the government remains operational, despite nearly every House Democrat voting against it.
A Call for Bipartisanship
Johnson urged Senate Democrats to prioritize the needs of the American people over partisan politics, noting that a shutdown would have real consequences, including delayed services, unpaid government employees, and economic strain.
“This is not a win for the Trump administration; this is a win for the American people,” Johnson said. “We have to keep the government operating, and Congress has a responsibility to do that.”
He pointed out that a shutdown would impact military personnel, TSA agents, border patrol officers, and other essential workers, warning that travel disruptions, security risks, and economic instability would follow.
Fast-Tracking Budget Reconciliation
Johnson also outlined an aggressive timetable for budget reconciliation, aiming to pass a comprehensive spending package before Easter. He stressed the urgency of extending Trump-era tax cuts, noting that failing to act could raise small business tax rates above 43%.
“Small business owners need certainty to plan ahead,” Johnson explained. “If we don’t extend these tax cuts, jobs and investments will be at risk.”
He projected that the bill could reach the President’s desk by April or May, ensuring that taxpayers and businesses feel the benefits quickly.
Integrating DOGE Cost-Saving Measures
Johnson also reaffirmed his commitment to implementing savings from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in future budgets, suggesting that federal spending reductions and operational reforms will drive a more efficient government.
“This is the Super Bowl,” Johnson said. “The stars have aligned for us to create a more responsible, effective government that respects taxpayer dollars.”