House Speaker Mike Johnson introduced a plan on Saturday to extend government funding temporarily, aiming to avoid a shutdown when the current short-term bill expires on November 17. The proposal excludes additional funding for Ukraine and Israel, a point of contention among US lawmakers.
Following the October 7 Hamas attack and Gaza invasion, some Republicans are advocating for prioritizing assistance to Israel over Ukraine. Their support is tied to demands for stricter border policies and asylum measures within President Joe Biden’s proposed $105 billion national security package. A bipartisan group of senators is negotiating potential compromises, while Senate Republicans proposed a border plan involving wall construction and stricter asylum eligibility.
The proposed framework, originating from a GOP-controlled House bill, has faced criticism from Democrats. They argue that it jeopardizes funding for Ukraine and includes harsh border and asylum policy changes. Despite disagreements, discussions continue as the deadline approaches.
The White House has expressed disagreement with several policies in the proposal, emphasizing the absence of a path to citizenship for Dreamers. Politico reported ongoing conversations between administration officials and lawmakers, exploring potential policy adjustments to reach a compromise with Republicans.
The Biden administration has faced criticism for its stringent asylum rules and allowing the use of funds for a border wall in southern Texas from the Trump era, raising concerns among immigration advocates.
