The U.S. narrowly avoided a government shutdown as the House of Representatives passed a critical spending bill just moments before the deadline. The bill, now awaiting Senate approval, ensures federal operations can continue until March. It covers disaster relief and agricultural expenses but does not suspend the national debt ceiling. Newly elected President Donald Trump urged Republicans to prioritize this issue, stating such actions should occur under Joe Biden’s administration, not his own.

Earlier, House Speaker Mike Johnson rejected a federal spending bill, escalating shutdown fears. Without intervention, government funds were set to deplete by December 21, potentially halting operations and forcing non-essential employees into furloughs. Critical services like military and emergency responders would remain active.

The U.S. national debt has surpassed $36 trillion, exacerbated by COVID-19 stimulus packages and aid to Ukraine and Israel. Disputes between Democrats and Republicans have delayed debt ceiling adjustments, with notable opposition from Republican members and figures like Elon Musk, who deemed the spending bill harmful. Musk supported Trump’s campaign with $300 million and praised his election win as a victory for the people.

If a shutdown occurred, small businesses would face significant delays in accessing government services. Earlier this year, Congress agreed on a $1.6 trillion federal budget for 2024, allocating $886 billion for defense and $704 billion for other expenditures. However, inconsistencies in the figures remain as discussions continue in Congress.