Tensions are boiling within the House Republican Conference as members express anger over Speaker Mike Johnson’s (R-La.) handling of a government funding measure that would extend federal funding until March 14. Critics within the GOP are calling the continuing resolution (CR) a sprawling "omnibus" in disguise, a characterization Johnson rejects.
The proposed package, which has not been fully finalized, includes $100.4 billion in disaster aid for communities hit by hurricanes and $10 billion in economic assistance for struggling farmers, among other provisions. Johnson argues the additions address critical needs, but dissenters claim the measure deviates too far from being a simple funding extension.
“It’s not a CR, which is a continuation of the budget. It’s turning into an omnibus,” said Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.).
Sharp Criticism from Conservatives and Moderates
During a closed-door GOP conference meeting on Tuesday, Johnson faced an onslaught of criticism from across the Republican spectrum. Hardline conservatives decried the process and substance of the legislation, while moderates expressed frustration over the role of Democrats in shaping the measure.
Rep. Eric Burlison (R-Mo.), a member of the conservative House Freedom Caucus, called the package “a total dumpster fire” and lamented what he sees as a recurring pattern of rushed decision-making.
“We get this negotiated crap, and we’re forced to eat this crap sandwich,” echoed Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas), another Freedom Caucus member. “Why? Because freaking Christmas is right around the corner. It’s the same dang thing every year.”
Moderate Republicans also expressed discontent. Rep. Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.), representing a district won by President Biden in 2020, accused Johnson of sidelining members and ceding too much influence to Democrats. In a fiery address during the meeting, Lawler reportedly declared, “I’m not a f‑‑‑ing Democrat” and criticized the process as not being member-driven.
Johnson Defends the Plan
At a press conference after the meeting, Johnson defended the emerging package, calling it a necessity to address unforeseen disasters and crises. He insisted the measure is not an omnibus and characterized it as a temporary fix in difficult circumstances.
“This is not an omnibus, OK? This is a small CR that we had to add things to that were out of our control,” Johnson said. “These are not man-made disasters. These are things that the federal government has an appropriate role to do.”
Johnson also sought to reassure lawmakers that he would adhere to standard legislative practices, including allowing members 72 hours to review the bill and moving it through a regular procedural rule. However, those promises have yet to materialize, leaving many lawmakers frustrated.
A Precarious Position for Johnson
The internal strife comes at a delicate time for Johnson, who faces a looming vote to remain Speaker in the new year. While some members have softened their criticism of him personally, the handling of this end-of-year package has left others questioning his leadership.
Rep. Burlison hinted at the stakes, saying, “Personally, I’m disappointed. I think that he can do better. The fact that we haven’t seen the language today and we’re supposed to vote on it this week is unacceptable.”
Johnson, however, expressed confidence in his standing as Speaker, saying he is “not worried” about retaining the gavel and hopes to win support from the majority of House Republicans.
“We’re governing. Everybody knows we have difficult circumstances. We’re doing the very best we can under those circumstances,” Johnson said.
Uncertain Path Forward
Despite the uproar, it remains unclear whether Johnson will have enough Republican support to pass the CR without relying on Democratic votes. Key questions also remain about the bill’s final language and the process by which it will be brought to the floor.
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