Pass the CR And Prepare For the Real Fight

 Ed Morrissey discusses the necessity of a new Continuing Resolution (CR) introduced by Speaker Mike Johnson, highlighting its implications and the political landscape surrounding it.

1. Current Situation: The U. S. Congress has developed a habit of avoiding regular budgeting for the past two decades, leading to the need for a CR this year as well. Although CRs are not ideal, this one is necessary.

2. Budgeting Challenges: There is an argument against the new CR, primarily its nature as a continuing resolution. However, with the current fiscal year nearing its midpoint, starting an entirely new budget would necessitate another CR to allow adequate time to draft it.

3. Potential Outcomes: Attempting to create a new budget is unlikely to yield significant changes in spending and could lead to further divisions within the House Republican caucus. Efforts should instead focus on the FY2025-26 budget, where there may be chances for meaningful spending reductions.

4. Bipartisan Support: The White House is actively endorsing the CR, with President Trump emphasizing its importance. He urges Republicans to support it to prevent government shutdowns and continue advancing his administration's agenda.

5. Financial Aspects: The proposed CR aims to reduce spending by approximately $7 billion compared to the previous budget and rescinds $13 billion in previously approved expenditures. It offers greater flexibility in defense spending while increasing the Defense budget and reallocating funds for immigration enforcement.

6. Republican Strategy: A clean CR is being framed as an opportunity for Republicans to counteract typical Democratic complaints about government shutdowns. By presenting a clear and reasonable resolution, Republicans aim to expose any Democratic obstructionism.

7. Call to Action: Morrissey stresses the significance of Republican unity in voting for the CR. He believes that adverse factions within the House should refrain from instigating shutdowns over minor issues, and instead concentrate on more critical forthcoming budget battles.

The adoption of the current CR, while not perfect, represents a strategic step forward for Republicans. It encourages responsible fiscal management while setting the stage for future budget discussions. Republicans are encouraged to support it, ensuring that they can address more pressing financial matters in subsequent legislative sessions. 

https://hotair.com/ed-morrissey/2025/03/09/pass-the-cr-and-prepare-for-the-real-fight-n3800588