On July 21, 2026, the House of Representatives voted to delay the potential for a government shutdown until after the November midterm elections. The legislation, known as a continuing resolution (CR), passed with a vote of 220 to 205 and will extend current funding levels until December 4, 2026. Only six House Democrats supported the measure, while 204 opposed it, and nearly all House Republicans voted in favor.
Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., expressed that this decision helps avoid a contentious federal spending dispute before the elections. House Majority Whip Tom Emmer, R-Minn., criticized Democrats who opposed the bill, stating that they are causing chaos within their party. He referred to the opposition as 'marxists and communists' and accused them of supporting a potential government shutdown.
The current fiscal year has already seen significant shutdowns, with Republicans warning that Democrats could instigate another shutdown before the elections if funding discussions are not postponed. House Democratic Caucus Chairman Pete Aguilar, D-Calif., opposed the bill, citing drafting errors that could allow for misallocation of funds.
The Senate is also working on its own funding extension plan, with some bipartisan cooperation noted. Senator John Hoeven, R-N.D., mentioned that they aim to address issues with the House's CR and secure a path forward for a bipartisan agreement before the August recess.