D.C. Debrief: House passes budget resolution, setting stage for legislative battle

Political Analyst Scott Mitchell and Washington Bureau Chief Alex Cameron discuss key moments in D.C. this week.

Key Step for GOP Agenda

The House has passed a budget resolution, a critical step in advancing President Donald Trump’s legislative agenda.

The resolution, which narrowly passed 217-215, sets the framework for upcoming tax and spending policies. While largely partisan, the measure provides Republicans with the ability to use the reconciliation process, which allows legislation to pass the Senate with a simple majority rather than the usual 60-vote threshold.

Debt Limit and Spending Cuts at Center of Debate

The resolution includes provisions to raise the national debt limit by $4 trillion while aiming to cut $2 trillion in spending over the next decade. This has caused division among Republicans, with some fiscal conservatives, such as Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky, opposing the resolution due to concerns about increasing the national debt. Others, including Rep. Josh Brecheen, argue that the resolution is a necessary step toward long-term fiscal responsibility.

Entitlement Programs Under Scrutiny

One of the most contentious aspects of the budget process is the potential impact on entitlement programs. The House resolution calls for $880 billion in savings from the Energy and Commerce Committee, which oversees Medicaid. While some Republicans insist that Medicaid will not be cut, others acknowledge that changes to the program may be necessary. Some lawmakers argue that the program has expanded beyond its original purpose, while others warn that any reductions could harm constituents who rely on these services.

Senate Priorities and Challenges

As the budget process moves forward, Senate Republicans have indicated a strong desire to make the 2017 tax cuts permanent, adding another layer of complexity to negotiations. The House and Senate will need to reconcile their differences, particularly on issues such as entitlement spending and the overall cost of tax cuts.

Republican Divisions and Political Realities

The narrow Republican majority in the House adds further complications. Around 50 Republican members have constituents who rely on programs like Medicaid and SNAP, making deep cuts politically challenging. Without a larger margin of support, leadership will need to navigate internal party differences while also preparing for negotiations with Senate counterparts.

Government Funding Deadline Looms

Adding to the urgency, a government funding deadline on Mar. 14 is approaching. With little agreement on broader spending measures, a year-long continuing resolution appears increasingly likely. The outcome of these negotiations will determine not only the future of tax policy and government spending but also the ability of the Republican-led Congress to deliver on key legislative promises.

The coming weeks will be critical as lawmakers work to finalize budget details and address looming funding challenges.