Thursday, December 19, 2024

The Craziest Things Congress Snuck Into Its Pork-Packed Christmas Spending Spree

House Republicans are debating a continuing resolution to keep the government running until March 14. Many are critical of the leadership for including unnecessary provisions that were negotiated without public input. The spending measure exceeds 1,500 pages and has support from both parties, with Speaker Mike Johnson emphasizing he does not plan to return to large omnibus bills.

Critics argue that the resolution contains wasteful spending, while Johnson believes passing it will help set the stage for future initiatives aligned with the Trump-era “America First” agenda. There is significant opposition from some House Republicans and notable figures like Vivek Ramaswamy and Elon Musk, who leads the Department of Government Efficiency.

The House Freedom Caucus pointed out that the resolution includes more than $100 billion in spending arranged in secret. Among the controversial provisions are a pay raise for Congress members, allowing lawmakers to opt-out of Obamacare, and funding for various programs like “Feral Swine Eradication. ” Additional provisions include government funding for bridge repairs and juvenile delinquent driver’s licenses.

Some House Republicans express frustration, stating this plan perpetuates prior spending habits and fails to address voter demands for reduced spending and secure borders. Critics like Texas Rep. Michael Cloud and South Carolina Rep. Ralph Norman argue the bill was poorly crafted and lacks transparency, leading to calls for more thorough debate. Ramaswamy, after reviewing the bill, urged Congress to reject it due to its excessive spending. A vote on the resolution could happen as soon as Wednesday evening. 

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/the-craziest-things-congress-snuck-into-its-pork-packed-christmas-spending-spree/ar-AA1w7hvK?ocid=msedgntp&pc=ACTS&cvid=8101af9b31e44f79b8eed116d173658f&ei=8

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