Staff Reports
The House Republican Conference is experiencing some serious disagreements over a bill to fund the government beyond September 30. Even if the bill manages to pass the House, it would still face insurmountable hurdles in the Democrat-controlled Senate and with President Joe Biden. It’s a clear example of how House Republicans struggle to find common ground, even within their own party, when it comes to funding the government. If Congress fails to pass all 12 appropriations bills or a continuing resolution by September 30, the government will shut down.
The tension among House Republicans has escalated to public feuding and fights on social media. Outgoing Rep. Victoria Spartz took to X (formerly Twitter) to criticize House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, calling him a “weak Speaker.” McCarthy responded by taking a jab at Spartz’s pending retirement. Rep. Matt Gaetz also got involved, defending Spartz and criticizing McCarthy for “attacking a woman.” Gaetz has also publicly clashed with Rep. Byron Donalds, who helped negotiate the continuing resolution.
Gaetz’s opposition to the bill and his fights with fellow House Republicans have earned him criticism from centrist colleagues. Rep. Dave Joyce questioned Gaetz’s accomplishments, saying he has only run his mouth. This infighting does not bode well for House Republicans’ ability to reach an agreement on a continuing resolution before the September 30 deadline.
This quote from @SpeakerMcCarthy is disgraceful.
Rep. Spartz is retiring after honorable service because her family needs her and she values the most important institution in American life.
Kevin attacking a woman for putting her family above ambition & power is truly a new… https://t.co/qO7HMxxvHE
— Matt Gaetz (@mattgaetz) September 18, 2023
While McCarthy remains optimistic about passing a conservative continuing resolution, some members of the conference are unsure of how to proceed. They recognize the need for a continuing resolution but are unsure of the path forward given the internal divisions. The bill is likely to face resistance among House Republicans, and the outcome remains uncertain.
In the end, the infighting within the House Republican Conference does not bode well for the party. It shows a lack of unity and resolve that could hinder their ability to pass crucial legislation and effectively govern. Without a clear path forward, the government’s funding remains uncertain, and the blame for any potential shutdown will likely be placed on Republicans. It’s a frustrating situation for those members of the conference who want to avoid a shutdown and get things done.
