High tension on Capitol Hill over government shutdown, healthcare
Lawmakers in the District of Columbia are at odds over a spending bill needed to keep the government open.
Earlier in the week the White House assured the public there would not be a government shutdown, but amid a brewing battle over health care President Donald Trump is placing blame on Democrats, despite being in the minority on Capitol Hill.
In a tweet, the President said:” As families prepare for summer vacations in our national parks – Democrats threaten to close them and shut down the government. Terrible.”
Republican leaders in Congress said they’re almost ready to pass the spending bill in an effort to keep the government open.
Democrats, however, said if the GOP plans to repeal and replace Obamacare then they cannot expect any cooperation to pass the spending bill.
In a statement, House Minority Whip Steny Hoyer said” If Republicans announce their intention to bring their harmful Trumpcare Bill to the House floor tomorrow or Saturday, I will oppose a one-week continuing resolution and will advise House Democrats to oppose as well.”
White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer said the Democrats’ unwillingness to collaborate is hindering the fate of the government.
“The Democrats at the last minute have come in and thrown a monkey wrench into the ability of this to get done despite the president doing everything he can to show good faith to keep this going.”
The House Rules Committee passed a rule that will allow leaders to address legislation through Saturday. They have not scheduled a vote, however the House is expected to vote on a one-week extension measure today.
