Congress Struggles to Advance Appropriations Bills as Shutdown Looms

As the September 30th end of the fiscal year nears, Congress continues to struggle with passing appropriations bills. A fight between moderate and hardline Republicans over the banning of mail-delivery abortion pills has complicated the House’s consideration of the fiscal year 2024 agriculture appropriations bill.  In the Senate, a “mini-bus” package of three appropriations bills, include agriculture, is also facing complications. There is also uncertainty surrounding a potential continuing resolution to keep the government running on October 1^st.  McCarthy, Schumer, McConnell, and Biden have all acknowledged the need for a short-term continuing resolution, the question is whether McCarthy can garner the votes to pass it.  Representatives Chip Roy (R-TX) and Matt Gaetz (R-FL) have been the most vocal against any type of short-term resolution that continues funding at the current level; and have made threats to McCarthy’s speakership.  McCarthy’s impeachment proceeding against President Biden was seen as an appeasement to his right flank, to try and silence these voices.  However, it is unclear whether the move will garner sufficient support for a continuing resolution to keep the government funded.