Story perspectives

Speaker Johnson Slams Senate Bill, Proposes DHS Funding Plan

3/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) called the Senate-passed bill to reopen DHS "a joke."
Johnson announced his own legislation that lacks sufficient support.
Johnson criticized Senate leadership, singling out Senate Majority Leader John Thune as ineffective and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer for the situation.
He plans to propose a stopgap spending bill to fund DHS until May 22.
U.S. President Donald Trump expressed support for Johnson's approach.

History

Historical Context

The 2013 U.S. government shutdown, lasting from October 1 to 17, stemmed from a budget impasse over the Affordable Care Act, following Republican gains in the 2010 elections. House Speaker John Boehner faced opposition from Senate Democrats, leading to the furlough of 800,000 federal workers. Today, Speaker Mike Johnson's criticism of Senate leaders reflects ongoing governance challenges, particularly regarding funding for the Department of Homeland Security.

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Story summary

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) called the Senate-passed bill to reopen DHS "a joke."
Johnson announced his own legislation that lacks sufficient support.
Johnson criticized Senate leadership, singling out Senate Majority Leader John Thune as ineffective and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer for the situation.
He plans to propose a stopgap spending bill to fund DHS until May 22.
U.S. President Donald Trump expressed support for Johnson's approach.

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