House GOP majority to shrink again in time for potential government shutdown showdown

It is likely that the GOP majority in the House of Representatives will shrink even further over the next couple of months in time for a potential government shutdown showdown this fall. With the resignation of Georgia Rep. Tom Price, President Trump’s choice to become the next Secretary of Health and Human Services, and with a host of retirements from both parties, the Republican majority is expected to be in the low to mid 200 range, compared to the 244-seat majority it currently enjoys. This could very well put the potential for a government shutdown squarely on the Republican’s shoulders. Given the extreme nature of many of the proposed budget cuts and changes to the Affordable Care Act, a number of moderate or vulnerable Republican lawmakers may be hesitant to agree to what could be a disastrous path for the country. This could be a key factor for deciding to engage in a government shutdown showdown when Congress is faced with creating a budget for the 2017 fiscal year. For this reason, the shrinking majority could be a blessing for those on both sides of the aisle. Should the Republicans choose to negotiate instead of face a government shutdown, they may be able to work together with Democrats to get a budget through that is less ideal than one the Republicans wanted, but still better than no budget at all. The remaining weeks of this congressional session are sure to be interesting as lawmakers grapple with these issues. Whether it will lead to gridlock and a government shutdown, or to compromise and cooperation, only time will tell.