President-elect Donald Trump has expressed strong opposition to the proposed Continuing Resolution (CR) aimed at preventing a government shutdown before the holiday recess. In a statement to Fox News host Lawrence B. Jones, Trump stated he is “totally against” the CR, which would extend government funding into 2025.
The CR, a 1,500-page document, includes provisions such as renewing the Farm Bill for an additional year (~$130 billion), allocating $100 billion for disaster relief, and $10 billion in stimulus for farmers. Critics, including Vivek Ramaswamy, designated to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in the upcoming administration, argue that the bill is laden with excessive spending and special interest allocations. Ramaswamy likened the spending to “showering cocaine on an addict,” suggesting it exacerbates fiscal irresponsibility.
House Speaker Mike Johnson has defended the CR, emphasizing the necessity of providing immediate aid to Americans affected by recent natural disasters and supporting struggling farmers. Johnson contends that postponing decisions on fiscal year 2025 spending until March, when Republicans will control both the executive and legislative branches, is a strategic move.
The debate over the CR highlights internal divisions within the Republican Party regarding fiscal policy and government spending, setting the stage for potential legislative challenges as the new administration prepares to take office.
I just spoke with the President-Elect @realDonaldTrump , and he is “totally against” the proposed CR.
— Lawrence Jones III (@LawrenceBJones3) December 18, 2024