Senate Democrats are facing a tough choice about whether to block a government funding bill proposed by House Republicans, as the threat of a government shutdown grows. They are concerned that rejecting the bill could backfire, giving President Donald Trump and Elon Musk more power to force federal workers into retirement.
The funding bill, which was introduced by House Republicans over the weekend, has faced criticism from Senate Democrats. They argue that the bill could weaken Congress’s control over spending, and give Trump and Musk the ability to redirect government funds, potentially eliminating important programs.
Despite these concerns, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) has not ruled out the possibility of supporting the bill if it passes in the House later this week. Schumer’s hesitation reflects a growing uncertainty among Senate Democrats about how to approach the situation.
In past government shutdowns, Democrats believed the political pressure would fall on Republicans, as the media typically scrutinizes the party in power during shutdowns. Democrats could also blame conservative factions for forcing the government to close. But this time, Democrats worry that Trump might drag out a shutdown for weeks, giving Musk more leverage over federal workers. Without a paycheck, many workers may feel forced to retire or look for jobs in the private sector.
Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) expressed his concern about how long the shutdown could last if Congress fails to pass the funding bill by the Friday deadline. He warned that Trump or Musk could make the shutdown even more painful for federal workers.
“Musk is already shutting down parts of the government,” Kelly said. “Who knows what he’ll want to shut down next?” He added, “That’s a huge risk. They might even decide entire agencies don’t need to exist anymore.”
Schumer, typically vocal on such issues, stayed quiet when the Senate opened its session on Monday. He seems to be holding back until he can consult with his leadership team before deciding on a strategy.
Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) told reporters that the Senate leadership would discuss the bill soon. Meanwhile, Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) said Democrats would push Republicans for a short-term funding bill that would give them more time to negotiate a deal that avoids cuts to non-defense programs.
“We need a short-term CR,” Warren said, referring to a continuing resolution. “The Republicans are already shutting down the government. We need a short-term CR so we can get our funding back on track.”
If Congress doesn’t pass all the regular funding bills by April 30, as required by the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023, government programs will face an automatic 1% cut across the board.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) warned Democrats that they could be held responsible for a shutdown if they vote against the House bill this week. For the bill to pass in the Senate, it would need at least eight Democrats to join Republicans in supporting it.
“The vote will be up to the Democrats,” Thune said. “We hope they will step up and keep the government from shutting down.”
Most Senate Republicans support the bill, but some are expected to vote against it, including Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.). Democrats are hoping the bill won’t pass in the House, which would allow Schumer to push for a shorter-term funding measure that treats both defense and non-defense programs more equally.
The current House GOP proposal increases defense spending by $6 billion and cuts non-defense programs by $13 billion. Democrats also warn that the bill gives Trump too much power over how funds are allocated, as it lacks the clear guidelines typically included in previous funding bills.
Senate Democrats are uncertain about the House bill’s chances of passing. They predict that House Democrats will vote as a bloc against the bill, making it difficult for Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) to secure enough votes from his party to pass it.
“Nobody knows what the House will actually do,” said Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii). “My preference is for a short-term CR so we can finish our work, and I think that’s the best option.”
The House GOP bill appears to have momentum, especially after Trump publicly endorsed it on Saturday.
Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas), a fiscal conservative, praised the bill, writing on social media that it would “keep the lights on for Elon Musk and DOGE” and stop Democrats who want a shutdown. Roy is expected to vote in favor of the bill, despite some conservatives’ usual opposition to funding measures.
Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) is the only Republican who has clearly stated he will vote against the bill, which means Johnson cannot afford any more defections. The House is split 218-214, so every vote matters.
Warren believes most House Democrats will vote against the bill, though some Democrats representing districts won by Trump in 2024 may face difficult decisions.
“My understanding is that House Democrats do not support this,” Warren said. “Republicans haven’t yet shown they have a bill that can pass.”
Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-Texas) has said he might vote for the GOP bill. He emphasized that he doesn’t support government shutdowns and wants to ensure taxpayer money is spent efficiently while protecting essential services.
“I do not support government shutdowns,” Cuellar said. “My priority is to make sure American taxpayer dollars are used effectively and that vital services are protected.”
Trump, in a post on Truth Social, urged Republicans to back the bill and railed against dissent. “The House and Senate have put together a very good funding bill. All Republicans should vote YES next week,” Trump wrote. “We have to remain united—NO DISSENT,” he warned.
