US President Joe Biden has signed a funding bill, narrowly avoiding a government shutdown just before Christmas. The bill was finalized after intense congressional negotiations that extended past the Friday midnight deadline, temporarily funding the government until mid-March.
The delay came after former President-elect Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk pushed Republicans to abandon an earlier bipartisan deal. Their actions forced lawmakers to scramble for a new agreement, with critical government services at risk of suspension. The final package includes $110 billion for disaster relief and farmers but excludes pharmaceutical reforms, congressional pay raises, and stricter rules on U.S. investments in China.
"This agreement represents a compromise," Biden said in a statement, rejecting Republican-backed tax cuts for billionaires.
Musk, Tesla's CEO, faced criticism for his influence over Republicans and his connection to China. Democrats and some Republicans questioned his interference in Congress, with Representative Rosa DeLauro highlighting concerns about Musk's business ties. Georgia Republican Rich McCormick expressed frustration, saying, "Elon Musk doesn’t have a vote in Congress."
House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed optimism, predicting a shift in Washington’s power dynamics when Trump takes office in January. Meanwhile, the funding deal ensures government operations continue, sparing the country from disruptions over the holiday season.
