Washington, D.C., March 10, 2025 – The Europe Today: A potential government shutdown looms as Congress faces a critical deadline to pass a temporary funding bill before the fiscal deadline on March 14. U.S. President Donald Trump, speaking to reporters on Sunday, acknowledged the risk but expressed confidence that a continuing resolution (CR) would be approved to maintain government operations.
The Republican-controlled House introduced a six-month stopgap spending bill on March 8, with a vote scheduled for March 11. The proposed measure would extend current government funding levels until September 30. President Trump has endorsed the CR and urged fellow Republicans to support it, emphasizing its importance in stabilizing the country’s financial situation.
Trump’s backing has influenced some hardline Republicans, a crucial factor given the party’s narrow 218-214 majority in the House. The funding plan seeks to reduce non-defense discretionary spending by $13 billion while increasing defense spending by $6 billion. Additionally, the proposal allocates extra funding for border enforcement, a contentious issue that is expected to face strong opposition from House Democrats.
Democratic lawmakers have criticized the proposal, citing concerns over deep spending cuts and the increased autonomy it would grant the White House over federal expenditures. The bill’s fate remains uncertain as it moves through Congress.
If the House approves the measure, it will require 60 votes in the Senate to reach President Trump’s desk, necessitating some Democratic support to avert a shutdown. With time running short, lawmakers face mounting pressure to reach a bipartisan agreement and prevent disruptions to government services.
