Senate Democrats Threaten Shutdown by Blocking Funding Post Minneapolis Shooting
Senate Democrats are threatening a government shutdown as funding negotiations intensify. This follows the tragic shooting of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis by federal agents. With a funding deadline approaching on January 30, 2024, lawmakers are struggling to finalize a package.
Funding Measures at Risk
Over the past few weeks, bipartisan efforts have aimed to pass twelve appropriations bills. Six have already been signed into law. The Senate’s focus now shifts to the remaining six measures, which include funding for various agencies:
- Department of Defense
- Department of Labor
- Department of Health and Human Services
- Department of Education
- Department of Transportation
- Department of Housing and Urban Development
- Department of State
- Department of Treasury
- Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
Notably, the DHS funding has become a sticking point due to recent events surrounding ICE and Border Patrol. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer stated that Democrats would not support any package that includes DHS funding.
Key Opposition from Senators
Independent Senator Angus King, who has previously worked with Republicans to avert shutdowns, has voiced his opposition as well. He emphasized the need to separate DHS funding from the other bills and negotiate its terms individually:
- “If those bills pass, 96% of the federal government is funded,” King remarked.
- He suggested that advancing the other funding bills would be the best course of action.
Schumer also expressed willingness to move forward with the other five funding bills without DHS. This divide illustrates the challenges ahead for Senate Republicans, who need Democrats’ cooperation to progress.
Calls for Investigation Following Shooting
In light of the Minneapolis shooting, several Senate Republicans have called for a comprehensive investigation. Senator Bill Cassidy labeled the incident “incredibly disturbing,” while Senator Lisa Murkowski demanded an unbiased inquiry to rebuild public trust.
As funding negotiations continue, the winter weather has delayed Senate sessions. Originally set for Monday, votes will now occur on Tuesday afternoon, tightening the timeline for a resolution before the deadline.
Potential Impact of a Shutdown
If an agreement is not reached by January 30, various federal agencies may face partial shutdowns. However, the impact would differ from past shutdowns due to some appropriations having already passed and become law. These include funding for:
- Military Construction
- Department of Veterans Affairs
- Department of Agriculture and FDA
The Senate now faces an urgent task: to find a path forward amid political divisions and public scrutiny following the Minneapolis tragedy.
