Both parties claim credit for bill they each say the other opposed
Congressional appropriators unveiled a bipartisan congress spending bill Monday that would fund three government departments through September, marking what leaders from both parties described as either a historic breakthrough or a reluctant compromise forced upon them by the opposing side.
“This package reflects steady progress toward responsible funding,” said a Republican statement. “We fought hard against Democratic spending priorities.”
“This package reflects steady progress toward responsible funding,” said a Democratic statement. “We fought hard against Republican spending priorities.”
When asked how both statements could simultaneously be true, a Capitol Hill aide who spoke on background said, “That’s really more of a philosophical question.”
What The Bill Does, According To Everyone
The $174 billion package would fund the Commerce, Justice, Interior, and Energy departments. Republicans say it represents a victory for fiscal discipline. Democrats say it represents a victory for essential government services. Budget analysts say it represents roughly the same funding levels as last year, which both parties had previously called either dangerously high or dangerously low, depending on the day.
Senator Patty Murray praised the bill for “ensuring Congress, not the President, decides how taxpayer dollars are spent.” A Republican colleague praised the same provision for “ensuring Congress, not the President, decides how taxpayer dollars are spent.” They declined to specify how these positions differed.
Shutdown Averted, Probably
The government will shut down January 30 if Congress fails to act. Asked whether this bill would prevent a shutdown, a senior appropriator said, “Well, it prevents part of one.”
The package covers six of twelve required spending bills. The remaining six, including defense, remain unresolved.
“We’re making great progress,” said a House Republican.
“Progress has been slow,” said a House Democrat.
The truth, as usual, likely lies somewhere in the middle. Or possibly nowhere.
Developing.
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