Speaker Johnson Declines Separate Military Pay Vote During Shutdown
House Speaker says chamber has already passed funding legislation
House Speaker Mike Johnson has declined requests for Congress to hold a separate vote on military service member pay during the ongoing government shutdown. Johnson stated that the House has already addressed the issue by previously passing a stopgap spending bill that would have funded the government through November 21. Military personnel could potentially miss paychecks next week if the shutdown continues.
Johnson emphasized that the House has completed its legislative work on the matter. He noted that the previously passed House bill received support from all Republicans and at least one Democrat, which he characterized as demonstrating common sense regarding government operations and employee pay. Johnson specifically mentioned that the bill would have ensured payment for troops, air traffic controllers, border patrol agents, and TSA employees.
KEY POINTS
- •Johnson rejects military pay bill vote
- •Says House already passed funding bill
- •Places responsibility on Senate
The Speaker placed responsibility for further action on the Senate, stating that "the ball is now in the Senate's court." Johnson expressed his view that remaining in session for what he termed "show votes" would not be productive. His comments suggest an impasse between the chambers of Congress as the shutdown continues to affect government operations and potentially federal employee compensation.
The government shutdown represents a significant challenge for the Trump administration as it navigates its first year back in office. Without resolution, the situation could impact numerous federal agencies and their employees, with military service members being among those potentially affected by missed paychecks. The standoff highlights ongoing tensions between the Republican-controlled House and the Senate regarding federal spending priorities.
This developing situation continues to evolve as lawmakers consider potential paths forward to address government funding. The shutdown's impacts could become more pronounced if a resolution is not reached before military and other federal employees' next scheduled pay periods. Both chambers of Congress face increasing pressure to find a compromise solution as the effects of the shutdown expand.