House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., recently spoke about the ongoing government shutdown and its potential impact on Americans. In an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, he warned that a prolonged shutdown could hurt everyday citizens. Johnson expressed hope that the situation would be resolved quickly, noting, “My expectation is that I don’t know how it could go longer than a week or so, because so many people have been so adversely affected by this.”
Johnson identified critical programs that could be significantly impacted by the shutdown, including the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) and funding for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). He highlighted the ramifications of WIC being unfunded, stating, “That’s not a small thing,” emphasizing the program’s role in supporting low-income families with essential nutrition.
During discussions with House Republicans, OMB Director Russ Vought warned that WIC might run out of funding within days if Congress does not reach a financial agreement. Meanwhile, funds for FEMA are expected to continue briefly, consistent with past shutdowns. However, the agency’s Disaster Relief Fund depends on congressional approval each year for replenishment. Johnson pointed out, “If your flood insurance lapses right now, they’re shut down,” emphasizing the vulnerability of communities in his hurricane-prone district. “I’ve got two of them off the coast of the U.S. right now,” he said, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
Additionally, Johnson expressed concern for military personnel and their families who will not receive paychecks during the shutdown. He referred to the active duty service members in his district, saying, “The troops are working without pay… I think a lot about these young airmen and soldiers who are deployed right now for their country.” His statements reflect a sense of duty to those who serve and the families they leave behind. Many service members have spouses and children who depend on their income, placing additional strain on military families during this period.
The House has passed a continuing resolution intended to maintain current federal spending levels through November 21. This is designed to give Congress more time to negotiate a budget for fiscal year 2026. This bill primarily received support from Republicans, passing mostly along party lines. In the Senate, however, the path forward remains uncertain. While several votes have taken place, progress has stagnated as Senate Democrats demand health care concessions, particularly regarding the extension of COVID-19 pandemic-era subsidies. Republicans are cautious about including these provisions, insisting that their plan should focus solely on funding and not encompass contentious policy issues.
As the impasse continues, the Senate is set to hold another vote on the measure, making it the fourth attempt to resolve the funding crisis. Without a bipartisan agreement, the consequences of a lengthy shutdown could further jeopardize critical services and programs that countless Americans rely on. Johnson’s recent comments highlight the urgency and potential fallout of the ongoing negotiations, reminding constituents of the tangible stakes at play.
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