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Congress struggles to lock down key funding deal before heading home on December 12, 2023 at 9:06 pm Business News | The Hill
Congress is struggling to lock down a deal on government funding with just days until lawmakers are set to leave town for the rest of the year, as both chambers appear to have given up on passing their own spending bills.
Lawmakers had been hopeful leadership would strike a deal last week on an overall topline level for government funding in fiscal 2024 as part of the annual appropriations process. But as negotiations continue, lawmakers say leadership is cutting it close. Congress is staring down a shutdown deadline next month, with little legislative time on the calendar.
At a press conference on Tuesday, Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) said lawmakers are “all hands on deck on the appropriations bills,” noting the shutdown deadlines on the horizon.
“But what we also agreed to was what’s written in the law and that’s the [Fiscal Responsibility Act] numbers on top lines,” Johnson also said, referring to legislation Congress passed earlier this year to raise the debt limit.
The measure, negotiated between the Biden administration and House GOP leadership back in spring, suspended the debt ceiling into 2025, staving off the threat of what experts warned could be a cataclysmic default, while also setting budget caps for fiscal 2024 and fiscal 2025.
As part of the law, lawmakers agreed to a base discretionary spending cap of $1.59 trillion, or about $886 billion for defense spending and almost $704 billion for nondefense spending, for fiscal 2024. However, there is uncertainty on Capitol Hill around where other components of that agreement not reflected in the bill stand, including changes that the White House detailed earlier this year to offset further funding on the nondefense side.
While appropriators say it’s unclear what are all the factors contributing to the holdup, some see the handshake agreement as a key hurdle.
In his comments on Tuesday, Johnson took aim at Senate Democrats over their appropriations work thus far, accusing the upper chamber of “projecting and writing well above” the spending cap agreed to in the debt ceiling law.
“That’s not what the law says, and so I came in as the new Speaker and I said, again, as the rule of law team, we’re going to follow the law,” he said. “So, that’s where negotiation stands.”
Meanwhile, Democrats have accused House Republicans of reneging on the full deal struck earlier this year, while also coming out fiercely against the prospect of a full-year stopgap bill to prevent a lapse in government funding in the weeks ahead.
Senate Appropriations Chair Patty Murray (D-Wash.) said the backup plan, which has attracted support from some conservatives, could be harmful to the country’s national security, as well as hurt programs like the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC).
“The Speaker’s proposal would lock in outdated spending plans and devastating across-the-board cuts while locking all of us out of any kind of thoughtful decision-making process for our nation’s future, all of which should be unacceptable to everyone here,” she said last week.
Last month, Congress agreed to temporarily freeze spending for certain agencies through mid-January and others until early February to allow time for both chambers to finish their funding work.
Among the agencies under the Jan. 19 deadline are the departments of Agriculture, Veterans Affairs, Transportation (DOT) and Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
Asked on Monday whether he was confident Congress would meet the deadline, Rep. Mike Simpson (R-Idaho), who chairs the House subcommittee that oversees funding for offices like the Department of Interior, said he preferred a different word, given the current pace of work.
“Confident? That’s another word I’m not really sure I want to use,” he told The Hill, though he added he was hopeful lawmakers would be able to meet the January deadline.
Both chambers failed to pass all 12 funding bills after falling behind on annual funding work earlier in the year.
While Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), the Senate’s spending cardinal who oversees dollars for HUD and DOT, said “there’s a fair amount of enthusiasm” in the upper chamber for the Senate to move to pass its remaining nine funding bills, he acknowledged the “time crunch” Congress faces.
As bicameral talks for a topline agreement continue, the appropriator said he thinks Congress has until closer to the “end of the calendar year” to strike a topline funding deal in time for them to conference and pass funding legislation to meet the January deadline.
“Appropriators staff can do pretty quick work, but we don’t want to jam them up and cause them either heartache or precipitate a clerical error,” he told The Hill.
“There’s not that much writing to do, right. You’re negotiating over numbers for existing programs. So it’s not like you’re writing a new authorizing statute,” he said. “You’re just trying to figure out what number to plug into the existing law.”
Congress has been bogged down in negotiations for further aid for Ukraine and Israel, as well as changes to border policy, while also working to pass a major annual defense authorization measure in the coming days.
But the clock is ticking, and leadership has been keeping its cards close as to how far both sides are to reach a deal.
Pressed Monday on whether there will be a topline agreement this week, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) told The Hill: “I hope so, but we’re having some trouble with the House.”
Business, House, News, government funding Congress is struggling to lock down a deal on government funding with just days until lawmakers are set to leave town for the rest of the year, as both chambers appear to have given up on passing their own spending bills. Lawmakers had been hopeful leadership would strike a deal last week on an overall…
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The Cities Bracing for Trump’s Immigration Crackdown
In the wake of Donald Trump’s recent election victory and his promise of “the largest deportation operation in American history,” several major U.S. cities are bracing for potentially seismic shifts in their economic and social landscapes. As the nation grapples with the implications of this proposed policy, urban centers that have long been havens for immigrant communities find themselves at the epicenter of a looming storm.
Los Angeles, often dubbed the “City of Angels,” stands to lose more than its celestial nickname suggests. As a primary gateway for immigrants, the city’s vibrant tapestry of cultures and its economic engine could face significant disruption. From the bustling streets of Koreatown to the sun-drenched orchards of the Central Valley, the absence of undocumented workers could leave gaping holes in the city’s workforce and cultural identity.
Across the country, New York City, with its iconic skyline and melting pot reputation, faces its own reckoning. The Big Apple’s 5.9 million immigrants, many of whom are undocumented, form the backbone of industries ranging from construction to healthcare. The potential exodus could transform neighborhoods like Jackson Heights and Flushing, altering the very essence of what makes New York a global city.In the Sunshine State, Miami’s tropical allure belies the turbulent times ahead. Home to 2.5 million immigrants, the city’s economy relies heavily on sectors like tourism and hospitality – industries where undocumented workers often fill crucial roles. The potential deportation of these workers could send shockwaves through Miami’s economic ecosystem, from South Beach’s glitzy hotels to the agricultural heartlands of South Florida.
Chicago, the “City of Big Shoulders,” may find those shoulders significantly weakened. With 1.7 million immigrants in its metropolitan area, the Windy City’s diverse neighborhoods and industries face an uncertain future. From the meatpacking plants to the tech startups, Chicago’s economic resilience could be tested like never before.
In the Lone Star State, Houston and Dallas stand as twin testaments to the complexities of immigration policy. These Texas titans, each home to large immigrant populations, could see their booming economies stumble. The construction sites that dot their ever-expanding skylines and the service industries that keep these cities humming could face unprecedented labor shortages.
Out West, the San Francisco Bay Area’s reputation as a bastion of innovation and progress could be challenged. The region’s tech industry, often reliant on immigrant talent, might find itself grappling with a new reality. From Silicon Valley’s coding campuses to the agricultural expanses of the Central Valley, California’s economic powerhouse could face a reckoning. Phoenix, rising from the Sonoran Desert, could see its growth trajectory altered. As Arizona’s urban center, it stands at the forefront of the immigration debate, potentially facing not just economic impacts but social and political upheaval as well.
These cities, along with others like San Diego and Las Vegas, are not just facing potential economic disruptions. They are staring down the barrel of profound social change. Family separations, community fragmentation, and the erosion of cultural enclaves built over generations are all possible consequences of mass deportations. Moreover, the fiscal implications are staggering. Undocumented immigrants contribute billions in taxes annually, often without receiving the full benefits of their contributions. Their sudden absence could leave gaping holes in city budgets, potentially affecting public services and infrastructure projects.
As these urban centers brace for impact, the debate rages on. Supporters of stricter immigration policies argue for the need to enforce laws and protect American jobs. Critics warn of economic devastation and the unraveling of America’s urban fabric. What’s clear is that America’s cities stand at a crossroads. The coming months and years will likely reshape urban landscapes in ways both visible and invisible. From the foods we eat to the services we rely on, from the neighborhoods we call home to the very character of our cities, the impacts of this proposed immigration crackdown could be far-reaching and long-lasting. As the nation watches and waits, these cities – vibrant, diverse, and economically vital – find themselves on the front lines of a policy that could redefine what it means to be an American city in the 21st century.
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How Trump’s Deportation Plans Could Reshape Major Cities
In the wake of Donald Trump’s recent election victory, his ambitious plans for mass deportations have thrust America’s urban centers into the spotlight. As the nation grapples with the potential implications of what Trump calls “the largest deportation operation in American history,” cities across the country are bracing for significant changes that could reshape their economic, social, and cultural landscapes.
The stakes are particularly high for metropolitan areas like New York, Los Angeles, Houston, Dallas, and Miami, which host the largest populations of unauthorized immigrants. These cities, along with other major urban hubs such as Chicago, Washington D.C., and San Francisco, stand at the forefront of a looming transformation that could reverberate throughout the nation.
Economic Tremors
Economists warn that the proposed deportations could send shockwaves through urban economies. Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s, cautions that businesses would face “significant challenges” if a substantial number of immigrants were removed. Industries such as construction, hospitality, and healthcare—pillars of urban economies—could face severe labor shortages.
Joe Brusuelas, chief economist at RSM, emphasizes the potential ripple effects: “The native-born workforce cannot meet current labor demands.” This labor gap could lead to increased wages, potentially rekindling inflation—a concern that looms large over city planners and policymakers alike.
Community Fabric Under Strain
Beyond economic considerations, the social fabric of cities hangs in the balance. Elena, a Nicaraguan immigrant in Houston, voices a fear echoed in immigrant communities across the nation: “I’m scared… This is my home.” The threat of family separations, particularly in mixed-status households, casts a long shadow over urban neighborhoods.
Immigrant advocacy groups like FIEL are mobilizing, advising clients to prepare for “anything that can happen.” This atmosphere of uncertainty could lead to decreased community engagement and cooperation with local authorities, potentially impacting public safety and community cohesion.
Cities at a Crossroads
As the debate intensifies, cities find themselves at a crossroads. Some, like New York and Los Angeles, have historically positioned themselves as “sanctuary cities,” often at odds with federal immigration enforcement. The impending clash between federal policy and local governance promises to be a defining feature of this new political landscape.
Meanwhile, the logistical challenges of implementing such a massive deportation operation remain daunting. Questions abound regarding detention facilities, transportation networks, and the sheer manpower required to carry out Trump’s vision.
Looking Ahead
As America’s urban centers brace for potential change, the full impact of Trump’s deportation plans remains to be seen. Legal challenges are all but certain, and the resilience of America’s cities will be put to the test.
What is clear is that the coming months and years will be pivotal for urban America. As Jason Miller, a senior Trump adviser, puts it, the plan is to “immediately reinstate” immigration policies from Trump’s first term. For America’s cities, this could mean a period of unprecedented change, challenge, and, potentially, transformation.
As the nation watches and waits, the story of America’s cities in the face of this ambitious deportation plan is just beginning to unfold. The outcome will undoubtedly shape the future of urban life in America for years to come.
Bolanle Media is excited to announce our partnership with The Newbie Film Academy to offer comprehensive courses designed specifically for aspiring screenwriters. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your skills, our resources will provide you with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the competitive world of screenwriting. Join us today to unlock your creative potential and take your first steps toward crafting compelling stories that resonate with audiences. Let’s turn your ideas into impactful scripts together!
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Donald Trump Wins 2024 USA Election
Based on the election results, Donald Trump has indeed won the 2024 U.S. presidential election, defeating Vice President Kamala Harris. Here’s an analysis of the key statistics and implications:
Electoral College Victory
Donald Trump has secured the presidency by winning crucial battleground states and flipping some key states that were previously held by Democrats. The final Electoral College tally is still being determined, but Trump has surpassed the 270 electoral votes needed to win.
Battleground State Performance
Trump’s victory was largely secured by winning several critical swing states:
- Wisconsin: Trump’s win here was pivotal in securing his path to victory.
- Pennsylvania: This state flipped back to Republican control.
- Georgia: Another key state that Trump managed to win back.
- Michigan: Trump successfully flipped this traditionally Democratic stronghold.
Popular Vote and Voter Priorities
While the final popular vote tally is still being calculated, exit polls provide insight into voter priorities:
- Economy and democracy were top concerns for voters.
- Abortion and immigration also played significant roles in voter decision-making.
Congressional Control
The election results extend beyond the presidency:
- Republicans are set to take back the Senate majority, securing at least 51 seats.
- Control of the House of Representatives remains undetermined.
Media Implications
The outcome of this election could be seen as a challenge to mainstream media narratives for several reasons:
- Polling Discrepancies: Many pre-election polls suggested a tight race or even a slight Harris advantage in key states. Trump’s victory, particularly in battleground states, may indicate that polls underestimated his support.
- Narrative Shifts: Throughout the campaign, much of the mainstream media focused on Trump’s legal challenges and controversies. His victory suggests that these issues may not have resonated with voters as much as economic and policy concerns.
- Voter Priorities: The emphasis on issues like the economy and immigration in voter decision-making may indicate a disconnect between media focus and voter concerns.
- Electoral Predictions: Many mainstream outlets were cautious about predicting a Trump victory, even as results began to favor him. This hesitancy could be seen as a reflection of broader media skepticism about Trump’s chances.
- Underestimation of Trump’s Base: The results suggest that Trump’s core support remained strong and potentially grew, despite negative coverage in much of the mainstream media.
It’s important to note that while the election outcome may challenge some media narratives, it doesn’t necessarily invalidate all mainstream reporting. The complex factors influencing voter behavior and the challenges of accurate political forecasting remain subjects of ongoing analysis and debate.
As the dust settles on this historic election, both the media and political analysts will likely engage in extensive reflection on the factors that led to Trump’s victory and the implications for future political coverage and analysis.
Bolanle Media is excited to announce our partnership with The Newbie Film Academy to offer comprehensive courses designed specifically for aspiring screenwriters. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your skills, our resources will provide you with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the competitive world of screenwriting. Join us today to unlock your creative potential and take your first steps toward crafting compelling stories that resonate with audiences. Let’s turn your ideas into impactful scripts together!
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