Biden Signs Stopgap Bill, Avoids Shutdown

President Joe Biden signed a stopgap funding bill into law, averting a government shutdown by extending funding through March 14, 2025, and including $100 billion for disaster relief and $10 billion for farm aid. This legislation came after President-elect Donald Trump and his allies blocked a broader bipartisan funding measure earlier in the week, demanding a pared-down version. The initial proposal, which included a debt ceiling suspension and a pay raise for lawmakers, was opposed by both Democrats and a significant number of Republicans. The final bill, excluding the contentious debt ceiling provision, was passed by the House and Senate, reflecting the challenges the GOP faces with internal divisions and Trump's influence. This legislative maneuvering highlights the upcoming fiscal challenges as Congress prepares to reconvene with a new administration. Biden emphasized the importance of the bill in providing necessary disaster relief and maintaining government operations.