OPINION | Updated August 21, 2026
The Senate was right to move early to reduce the risk of a government shutdown. But a continuing resolution through Dec. 11 should be a bridge to completed appropriations—not another excuse for Congress to postpone its work.
Shutdowns Are a Poor Bargaining Tool
Shutdowns disrupt services, waste money on closures and reopenings, and create uncertainty for workers and the public. They rarely produce durable policy victories because pressure to reopen overwhelms the underlying budget argument.
A 90-6 Senate vote shows that most lawmakers understand the immediate cost. The House should review the details carefully without manufacturing a crisis for a few days of leverage.
Temporary Funding Has Costs Too
Continuing resolutions freeze programs at old levels and prevent agencies from adapting. Defense planners warn that short-term funding complicates contracts, training and modernization.
The answer is regular order: individual appropriations bills, amendments and public reconciliation of differences. Leaders should schedule votes before members face a last-minute choice between a huge package and a shutdown.
Why This Matters
Budgeting is a central congressional responsibility. Keeping government open protects the public, while finishing appropriations on time restores accountability for taxpayer money.
What to Watch
Watch the House vote, committee negotiations and whether leaders commit to separate, readable appropriations bills before Dec. 11.
Sources
- Associated Press report carried by ABC News
- White House policy statement
- Senate Appropriations Committee
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