A surprising move by Republican lawmakers has put President-elect Donald Trump's key policy proposals, including his significant deportation plans, at risk by opposing the suspension of the federal debt limit.
The Telegraph reported that the failure to suspend the debt limit as Trump desired signals potential trouble in fulfilling his campaign promises.
On Friday evening, a majority of Republican legislators voted in favor of a stopgap bill that extended government funding until March but did not suspend the federal debt limit, contrary to Trump’s wishes.
Trump had campaigned for suspending the debt limit to clear the way for his extensive spending plans upon taking office. However, fiscal conservatives within his party have expressed alarm over the current debt levels, which now incur interest payments surpassing those of defense spending.
This concern led to the defeat of a two-year debt suspension proposal in the House of Representatives where 38 Republicans joined Democrats to block the measure on Thursday.
In the aftermath, Congress passed a temporary funding measure hours before a potential shutdown that did not include the debt suspension Trump had requested.
Though Trump won the recent election against Kamala Harris and Republicans secured majorities in both the House and the Senate, their control appears fragile. Trump’s agenda encountered further challenges as three House Republicans left for positions in his administration, weakening the party’s slight majority.
Additionally, a bipartisan funding agreement initially supported by Trump and Elon Musk saw over 1,000 pages of policy measures removed, including strategies concerning U.S. investments in China and reducing prescription drug prices.
Democrats, while supportive of the final funding package, criticized the significant influence Trump and Musk exercised in reshaping the deal, suggesting undue external influence.
Marc Short, a former legislative assistant to Trump, voiced concerns about the implications of these events on Trump’s proposed policies on borders and taxes. He indicated these developments are not promising for the future enactment of Trump’s plans.
Trump’s reaction to the congressional outcomes was one of stark disapproval. On his social media platform, Truth Social, he stated that any package lacking his requested elements constituted a "betrayal of our country."
Representative Rich McCormick emphasized the necessity of transforming Washington's operations to uphold Trump's commitment to enhance the nation, contrasting with Eric Burlison of Missouri, who underscored his loyalty to his constituents over the President-elect.
This internal party discord and the tactical dynamics within Congress highlight the complexities Trump faces as he prepares to lead.
A source close to Trump suggested to Politico that the focus on minor skirmishes might detract from tackling more substantial policies.
Connecticut Senator Chris Murphy remarked on the legislative process, pointing out that the removal of certain provisions seemed to particularly benefit billionaires and corporations, underscoring ongoing concerns about the influence of wealth in politics.
The unfolding events suggest that Trump’s tenure might be characterized by continuous negotiation and compromise, essential for navigating the intricate realm of U.S. politics and governance.
