Johnson faces unity test on spending deal as Democrats promise not to help GOP

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) must rely on his Republican conference staying united to pass a continuing resolution to keep the government open, a feat proven difficult throughout his speakership, as hard-liners typically push back against short-term spending deals.

But Johnson may be able to breathe easy this week, as hard-line Republicans have largely fallen in line behind the CR that keeps government levels mostly frozen until Sept. 30, the end of fiscal 2025. The legislation, made public over the weekend, raises defense spending by about $8 billion and lowers nondefense spending by about $13 billion. Funding expires on Friday.