Shutdown Season: Divisions in the US Congress Threaten the Functioning of Government
The functioning of the American government is once again compromised by divisions within Congress. For several weeks, Republicans have been struggling to choose a new speaker of the House of Representatives, which is paralyzing the adoption of the federal budget for the coming year. If an agreement is not reached by November 17, the United States could face a “shutdown”, a partial closure of government activities.
Republicans are plagued by deep internal divisions, exacerbated by the rivalry between Donald Trump’s supporters and the party’s moderates. Since the ouster of Kevin McCarthy, candidates have followed one another without being able to obtain a majority to take the lead in the House of Representatives. This deadlock endangers the proper functioning of the American government and highlights the fissures within the Republican Party.
Donald Trump’s supporters, particularly intransigent, refuse to support certain candidates considered too moderate or who voted in favor of certifying Joe Biden’s victory in 2020. This ideological rigidity has the consequence of paralyzing the American political system, which is traditionally based on compromise and the search for consensus.
In addition to its political implications, this crisis could have serious consequences for American citizens. Indeed, if no agreement is reached to adopt the federal budget, hundreds of thousands of workers could be sent home without pay. Additionally, important federal programs, such as those related to aviation and agriculture, could be suspended, leading to disruptions in many sectors.
Additionally, Congressional paralysis would make it impossible to approve military aid requested by President Joe Biden for Ukraine and Israel, two important U.S. allies. This situation would jeopardize national security and weaken the country’s diplomatic position on the international stage.
If these divisions persist, the political consequences could also be significant. Republicans risk losing the trust of voters, who might view them as incapable of governing. Additionally, the party could become further divided between Donald Trump supporters and moderates, weakening its ability to run unified in the next election.
It is therefore urgent that the Republicans find common ground and manage to appoint a new president of the House of Representatives, in order to allow Congress to function fully and avoid a new “shutdown”. It’s time to put aside divisions and work together for the good of the country. Otherwise, the consequences could be disastrous, both politically and socially and economically.