Potential Hurdles for House Vote on US Shutdown Resolution

A day after the US Senate passed a spending bill to end the longest-ever government shutdown, the budget fight now moves to the House of Representatives. The lower chamber of Congress is expected to vote this week on the funding measure.

Unlike in the Senate, if House Republicans stay united, they don't need any Democrats to pass the budget. However, the margin for error is razor thin. Here are four potential hold-ups for the budget, before it can clear Congress and land on the president's desk for signing into law.

Will House Republicans Budge on Healthcare?

A significant sticking point has been the Democrats' desire to include a renewal of tax credits that would reduce health insurance costs for 24 million Americans. In contrast, Senate Republicans only agreed to a vote in December for this extension, a previous offer.

House Speaker Mike Johnson has not committed to allowing a vote on these tax credits, which poses a risk for Republicans if they decide to exclude them. High premiums could become a campaign issue for Democrats ahead of the midterm elections.

While some Republicans advocate for income caps on receiving these tax credits, the details remain vague.

How Intense Will House Democratic Opposition Be?

Feeling empowered by recent election successes, the Democratic Party faces internal divisions between its pragmatic and progressive factions. Critics, including Senator Bernie Sanders, warn against capitulation on critical issues like healthcare costs, calling the current consensus a “betrayal.”

Centrists, however, may cooperate with Republicans to ensure passage, emphasizing a need for governmental functionality.

Do Republicans Have the Votes?

Controlling 219 seats against 213 for Democrats means Republicans can afford to lose only two voting members. Although many are expected to support the package, dissent from fiscal conservatives looms as a threat. Some, like Thomas Massie, oppose such spending due to ongoing debt concerns.

Will Travel Chaos Delay the Return to Washington?

As the vote approaches, logistical challenges may arise due to flight delays impacting lawmakers returning to Washington. A recent increase in flight cancellations adds another layer of complication, potentially thwarting timely legislative action.