DORAL, Fla. — House Republicans are facing a challenging few weeks as they work to meet three looming fiscal deadlines and push through legislation supported by President Donald Trump.
House Majority Leader Steve Scalise told Fox News Digital that the party’s goal is to deliver on Trump’s campaign promises, including no tax on tips, no tax increases, funding for border security, and increased energy production. The party also aims to repeal regulations and reduce government spending.
Scalise emphasized that the upcoming reconciliation bill will be “much more robust” than the one passed in 2017. He expressed optimism that the party can navigate the challenges ahead, including potential divisions within the party regarding the best approach to enactment of their plans.
To meet the deadlines, Scalise suggested a two-track strategy, with the Senate and House working on separate bills related to border security and energy production. However, House leaders are concerned that this approach may allow Trump’s 2017 provisions to expire, resulting in tax increases for millions of families.
The House is also dealing with the imminent reinstatement of the debt ceiling, which is expected to be reinstated in March. According to projections, Congress has until mid-June or earlier to address the issue to avoid financial turmoil and a potential downgrade in the US’s national credit rating.
Scalise floated the possibility of combining the debt ceiling and government funding deadlines, which are set to expire on March 14, with the possibility of a partial government shutdown on the line if a deal is not reached. He also mentioned that the Appropriations Committee is working with the Senate and White House to negotiate government funding that meets President Trump’s priorities, with the potential to link the debt ceiling to this negotiation.
Lawmakers are working to find a solution to the multiple deadlines and enact President Trump’s agenda, with the president himself and Vice President JD Vance addressing the House GOP at the annual retreat in Doral, Florida.
