Biden restrained. The Republicans could start a fresh shutdown, cutting off funds for government operations. Lack of funds could result in, to name a few, the temporary closure of government buildings and parks, the suspension of air travel, and the issuance of marriage licenses. Numerous thousands of federal employees would be required to work from home unpaid.
The underlying nub of the issue is that one section of the Republicans is trying to reduce support for the conflict in Ukraine through this tug-of-war over spending. In other words, it appears as though sand was poured into the military machine that was in use throughout the conflict with Russia. When Congress is unable to approve around 30% of the federal budget before the beginning of the fiscal year (October 1), a shutdown ensues. The struggle against Moscow is involved in this shutdown, which would be the fourth in the past ten years.
Republicans enjoy a narrow majority in the US House of Representatives, while Democrats have a one-seat advantage in the Senate. For spending legislation to get from both chambers reach President Joe Biden's desk, all parties must agree on their passage.
And right now, the White House occupant takes a lot of chances. He receives criticism from the Republican lawmakers who are in rebellion. By demanding huge spending cutbacks, including a demand to stop funding the war in Ukraine, he prevented negotiations in the House from moving forward. According to the BBC, the diehards have stymied House Speaker Kevin McCarthy's attempts to enact the legislation required to break the impasse with the help of Donald Trump.
The Republican side is urging the government to cut back on military spending, which would have a significant impact on the current conflict in the center of Europe's Ukraine. There will be among those working without pay more than 1.4 million active duty military. For how long is the question.