Additional Coverage:
- Elon Musk, Vivek Ramaswamy want Congress to reject deal that would prevent government shutdown (newsbreak.com)
Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy are urging lawmakers to reject a government funding extension that could prevent a shutdown later this week. They criticize the bill as wasteful and full of special interests.
Musk and Ramaswamy, who will lead a new Department of Government Efficiency under President Trump, believe the bill is inefficient and should be voted down. Their opposition could complicate the passage of the bill, which would keep the government running through March 14.
House Republicans have expressed frustration with the deal, with some accusing leaders of excluding them from negotiations. However, House Speaker Mike Johnson says he has communicated with Musk and Ramaswamy about their concerns.
The funding extension faces a new deadline in mid-March, setting up a potential funding fight in the early stages of Trump’s presidency. The bill includes additional provisions such as disaster relief, healthcare reforms, and a pay raise for members of Congress.
To pass the bill, Johnson made a deal with Democrats, who control the Senate and are necessary for its passage due to Republican divisions. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer emphasized the need for bipartisan cooperation to avoid delays or a government shutdown.