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Urgency in the House: Johnson Insists on Memorial Day Deadline for Budget Bill

House Speaker Mike Johnson is determined to see the historic budget bill reach the House floor before Memorial Day, despite the initial failure to exit the committee. In a statement on Fox News Sunday, Johnson emphasized the importance of maintaining the timeline, calling the bill “nation-shaping legislation” and assuring that lawmakers are working tirelessly to make it happen.

“We’re working around the clock to deliver this nation-shaping legislation for the American people as soon as possible,” Johnson asserted. The budget committee is set to reconvene on Sunday night at 10 p.m. ET, with the goal of pushing the bill to the rules committee by midweek and presenting it on the House floor by the end of the week.

Political Hurdles: GOP Resistance and Concerns Over Medicaid Requirements

Despite Johnson’s confidence, the road to approval remains challenging. On Friday, the House Budget Committee, led by the GOP, voted 16-21 against the budget bill. Notably, five Republicans sided with Democrats, citing issues with Medicaid requirements and excessive spending.

Among the dissenting voices were Representatives Ralph Norman of South Carolina and Chip Roy of Texas. Norman criticized the bill on X (formerly Twitter), labeling the decision to delay work requirements for able-bodied Medicaid recipients as “fiscally irresponsible.” Similarly, Roy warned that reckless spending would burden future generations, stating, “We are writing checks we cannot cash, and our children are gonna pay the price.”

In response, Speaker Johnson acknowledged the concerns of his fellow Republicans but suggested that the primary obstacle lies with states’ ability to implement changes to Medicaid eligibility requirements efficiently.

Opposition in the Senate: Navigating Bipartisan Challenges

The bill also faces potential pushback from the Senate. GOP Senator Ron Johnson of Wisconsin has likened the legislation to “the Titanic,” hinting at doubts about its viability. However, Speaker Johnson expressed optimism, revealing that he has been in consistent talks with Senate Majority Leader John Thune to ensure smooth passage.

“There’s no surprises, the package we send over there will be one that was very carefully negotiated and delicately balanced,” Johnson explained, expressing hope that the Senate will not introduce significant changes.

Pressure Mounts: Competing Deadlines and Political Stakes

Beyond the Memorial Day deadline, the bill faces another critical timeline: July 4. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned that failing to secure passage by that date could have severe fiscal repercussions. Johnson, however, is focusing on the Memorial Day goal, urging lawmakers to put partisan differences aside to secure the bill’s progress.

President Donald Trump also weighed in, urging GOP unity behind what he called “THE ONE BIG BEAUTIFUL BILL” in a Truth Social post. Despite the high stakes, bipartisan divisions persist, with some Republicans wary of provisions they see as compromising conservative fiscal values.

Moving Forward: Can the Bill Survive Political Wrangling?

As the clock ticks down, Johnson’s strategy hinges on maintaining momentum while addressing intra-party disputes. His efforts to balance Republican concerns with the need for swift action reflect the broader challenge of navigating a divided Congress.

Lawmakers and analysts alike are keeping a close eye on the House as the next vote approaches. Should the bill clear the House, its fate in the Senate remains uncertain, but Johnson’s proactive communication with Senate leaders could help mitigate obstacles.

The outcome of this legislative push will not only shape fiscal policy but also set the tone for future bipartisan negotiations. As Speaker Johnson rallies support, the question remains whether the House can unite in time to meet the critical deadline.

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