US House passes short-term funding bill to avert government shutdown
07:39, 22/07/2026, WednesdayU: Update: 07:40, 22/07/2026, Wednesday
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The US House of Representatives has passed a short-term funding bill to keep the government open through December 4, just weeks before the November midterm elections. The measure passed 220-205, with Speaker Mike Johnson accusing Democrats of using the funding fight for political gain.
The House of Representatives has passed a short-term funding bill aimed at preventing a government shutdown by extending federal funding through December 4. The measure, H.R. 9770, passed by a vote of 220-205, with six Democrats joining Republicans in support and one Republican voting against.
Political Divisions
Speaker Mike Johnson said Republicans took the "responsible step" of passing the continuing resolution to fund the government through the November elections. He accused Democrats of voting against the measure for political purposes, claiming they believe a shutdown could benefit them ahead of the midterms. "Republicans are under no illusions about the Democrat Party's intentions," Johnson said.
Next Steps
The bill now moves to the Senate, where it must pass before the September 30 funding deadline to avoid a shutdown. The continuing resolution would extend government operations beyond the deadline, providing temporary funding while lawmakers negotiate longer-term spending measures.