×

House leaders race clock on spending bill

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate’s top Republican issued a downbeat assessment of talks on a government spending bill Wednesday, warning that it will require a “laser focus” from both parties and both chambers” to meet next week’s deadline and avert a federal shutdown.

Across the Capitol, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi met with Hispanic lawmakers about the upcoming appropriations measure, which is likely to largely maintain President Donald Trump’s tactical ability to fund his much-sought border wall.

It’s part of an effort to solidify support for the emerging catchall funding bill, which promises to deliver plenty of small-bore victories for lawmakers in both parties and is seen as preferable to the alternative of simply keeping the government on autopilot. Trump cares mostly about border fence funding.

“To be frank, only a laser focus from both parties and both chambers on getting results will create a path to pass appropriations bills this year,” Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said. “There simply is not time left for my Democratic friends to continue haggling over … poison pills, partisan policy riders and presidential transfer authorities.”

As is often the case, California rivals Pelosi and Kevin McCarthy are feuding, this time about a long-shot McCarthy bid for additional funding for a controversial dam project that would provide more water for Central Valley farmers.

Newsletter

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *
   

Starting at $4.65/week.

Subscribe Today