In a surprising reversal, U.S. Senator Ron Johnson has altered his stance on the Senate filibuster rule, a longstanding procedure that has historically necessitated bipartisan cooperation for passing certain legislation. This shift allows Republicans the potential to pass a federal funding bill without needing Democratic support.
Johnson’s change of heart is a stark contrast to his position in 2022, when he criticized Democrats for attempting to eliminate the filibuster, claiming it was a bid for “absolute power.” His recent decision coincides with the federal shutdown reaching a record duration.
The filibuster requires a 60-vote majority in the Senate to pass most legislation. With Republicans holding 53 seats, they must negotiate with Democrats to pass government funding measures.
On Wednesday, President Donald Trump urged Republican senators to end the filibuster, suggesting that without its removal, passing legislation would be impossible. Johnson soon after supported Trump’s stance on social media, stating, “We KNOW Democrats will nuke the filibuster as soon as they’re able to solidify their grip on power. We should act first in order to pass laws that benefit the AMERICAN people.”
This is a departure from his 2022 statement, where he opposed the Democratic effort to remove the filibuster, arguing it was a “naked power grab” to maintain control amidst poor polling and unfavorable policies.
Republicans and Democrats Blame Each Other for Government Shutdown
Amid the political stalemate, U.S. Rep. Glenn Grothman shared that the filibuster was a surprise to him upon entering Congress in 2015, as it often hinders legislative progress. He noted that despite frustrations, many senators, including the most conservative, continue to support it.
Filibuster debates aside, the government shutdown has led to a deadlock, with Democrats like U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin pushing for Republicans to extend tax credits reducing Affordable Care Act premiums. Republicans have resisted, demanding Democrats first approve a “clean” short-term funding bill before negotiations.
The standoff has resulted in Trump’s administration withholding funds for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), despite federal judges ordering the release of contingency funds. Trump blamed Democrats for the funding freeze, stating he would not act unless the government reopened. The administration later agreed to comply with court orders, though delays are expected.
Grothman expressed hope that the delay in SNAP payments might prompt action, but the shutdown continues as negotiations stall. In response, Baldwin criticized Trump for minimal compliance with judges’ orders regarding SNAP funding, accusing him of withholding necessary resources.
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services warned that partial SNAP payments could lead to significant delays and potential errors, possibly requiring the state to repay funds due to changes in Trump’s tax and spending policies.
Amidst blame from both sides, Republican U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany and others have targeted Baldwin for voting against a clean funding bill, while Democratic U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore accused Republicans of intentionally keeping the government closed, letting healthcare costs surge.
Rep. Mark Pocan highlighted recent Democratic election victories as evidence of public discontent with the current administration’s actions, urging Speaker Johnson to reconvene the House to resolve the shutdown.
