Speaker Johnson Strikes Spending Deal with Democrats, But Faces Conservative Backlash over Non-Defense Funding Levels
• The deal sets a top-line spending number of $1.59 trillion for fiscal 2024, including $886 billion for defense and $704 billion for non-defense discretionary funds.
• The non-defense number is higher than what some conservatives wanted, leading to criticism that it's too high. Democrats say key domestic priorities are protected.
• Questions remain around a previous "side deal" on budget changes to offset more non-defense funding. Democrats say it stands, but some Republicans want to abandon it.
• Conservatives have mounted growing opposition, panning the non-defense spending level as "reckless." Supporters hope the deal can avoid a year-long continuing resolution.
• Time is running out before a Jan. 19 shutdown deadline. While top-line figures are set, much work remains writing and passing 12 spending bills through Congress.