GOP Makes Surprising New Push

Senate Republicans are working toward an ambitious goal of securing substantial funding increases for defense and border security before a crucial mid-March deadline, which could prevent a government shutdown. The plan aims to bypass the traditional appropriations process by pushing for these funding increases separately.

Senate Budget Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) emphasized the importance of securing four years’ worth of border security funding for President Trump before March 14. He expressed the critical need for $150 billion in new funds before that date to alter the conversation surrounding government funding. “It would be a game-changer in the discussions,” Graham said, suggesting that the president is on board with the idea.

This strategy is a way for Republicans to gain more leverage in funding talks, particularly as they seek cuts in nondefense spending, while Democrats demand an even increase in both defense and nondefense sectors. However, while Republicans hold the majority in both chambers, moving such a plan forward is far from easy. GOP leaders are at odds over how best to tackle key parts of President Trump’s agenda, especially in the areas of taxes, defense, and border security.

The plan would move defense and border funding through the reconciliation process, allowing Republicans to bypass the Senate’s 60-vote threshold. However, reconciliation is a lengthy and complex process, which typically takes much longer than the month remaining before the March 14 deadline. House and Senate Republicans recently passed separate budget resolutions, which are necessary to unlock reconciliation, with both proposing funding boosts for defense and border security.

The Senate resolution passed last week suggests a $300 billion boost for defense and border security, which Republicans aim to offset with cuts later in the process. Meanwhile, the House Budget Committee passed a much broader budget plan, including potential tax cuts, spending cuts, and a controversial $4 trillion increase in the national debt limit.

Despite the challenges, Senate Republicans are prioritizing border and defense funding, with hopes of delivering an early win for President Trump. Although they also plan to push through tax reform later, passing the border and defense funding is seen as a critical first step.

With March 14 looming, Republicans acknowledge the likelihood of needing a stopgap measure to prevent a shutdown. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has floated the idea of a full-year stopgap to maintain current funding levels. As lawmakers struggle to reach a bipartisan deal, pressure is mounting to act quickly on securing additional funds for border security.

The Trump administration has been vocal in its push for more funding for border enforcement, and GOP senators like Graham are pushing for swift action. “They wouldn’t come over begging for money unless they were serious,” Graham said after meeting with senior Trump administration officials.

Other Republicans, including Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), support Graham’s push to secure funding before the March deadline. Kennedy sees this as crucial to setting the tone for budget negotiations, while Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas) echoed the importance of advancing responsible measures to address border security and military needs. Without decisive action, Republicans warn that the government could face a shutdown, potentially ending a streak of years without one.

In the end, Senate Republicans are rallying behind the goal of ensuring robust funding for defense and border security while also pursuing necessary spending cuts and tax reforms. Time is running out, and the GOP is eager to act before the looming deadline.