Senate Republicans Push for Short-Term Continuing Resolution

Strategic Insights -

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) has spoken out in favor of a short-term continuing resolution (CR) to fund the government until November 21, 2025. Thune emphasized the need for a clean CR that would allow for appropriation bills, a process that has been abandoned in the past. He noted that 96% of Democrats voted for 13 short-term CRs during the Biden presidency, suggesting that Democrats may be willing to work with Republicans to avoid a government shutdown.

Key Takeaways:

  • Thune suggested a short-term CR to get to November 21, 2025, to give time to process and consider appropriation bills, which is the way the government should be funded.
  • Thune referred to Schumer's statement from last year that shutdowns cause pain and needless harm and chaos for the American people, highlighting the irony of Schumer's stance.
  • Thune pointed out that during the Biden presidency, there were 13 short-term CRs, and 96% of Democrats voted for all 13.
  • Thune emphasized that it will take 60 votes to pass a short-term CR, and he hopes that Democrats who think shutting down the government is a bad idea will deliver votes to keep the government open.
  • The House has posted their legislation, which will be sent to the Senate later this week for consideration.
  • Thune expressed frustration that Democrats are not accustomed to writing appropriation bills through a committee process, and instead, do it behind closed doors.

Statistics:

  • 13 short-term CRs were passed during the Biden presidency, with 96% of Democrats voting in favor.
  • 60 votes are required to pass a short-term CR in the Senate.
  • November 21, 2025, is the target date for a short-term CR to give time to process and consider appropriation bills.

Sources:

"Wash, DC. [No author]. (16 Sep 2023). Thune's Remarks. [No source name], [No publication], [No URL]"

*Note: The original text does not include a source name, publication name, or URL.*