House Republicans concluded their final week before the summer recess with a series of legislative actions, including passage of a $95 billion budget blueprint for the war with Iran and the annual defense authorization bill. However, the victories may be short-lived as Democrats exploit internal GOP divisions and public dissatisfaction with the war and economic conditions.
War Funding Passes Amid Avoidance of Direct Language
Republican Representative Jodey Arrington, the chief budget writer, framed the spending as necessary for "baseline battlefield readiness," avoiding terms like "war" or "Iran." He stated the funds would go toward "bullets and bombs to finish the job and come home safely and victoriously, strengthen our food supply, and ultimately safeguard the integrity of our elections." The budget passed largely along party lines, but the rosy depiction contrasts with polls showing poor approval ratings for the Iran conflict and President Donald Trump's presidency.
Democratic Resurgence and Internal GOP Divisions
House Speaker Mike Johnson touted the legislative output, saying, "Many of you like to say that major legislating can't happen in an election year. We just proved you wrong." However, within 24 hours, four dissident Republicans joined Democrats to pass a symbolic war powers resolution mandating Trump withdraw troops from combat against Iran. Democratic Representative Jason Crow warned that lawmakers returning home will face constituents losing healthcare, homes, and farms, questioning why they support "another endless war in Iran."
Senate Holds Up House Bills
The House's budget blueprint faces hurdles in the Senate, where Republican Majority Leader John Thune placed it on "hold" as leverage in government funding negotiations. The $1.15 trillion National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) also faces Democratic objections over cost and Iran hostilities. Johnson further complicated the NDAA by merging it with the Save America Act, which would restrict mail-in ballots and impose new voter ID requirements, a priority of Trump.
GOP Confidence Despite Challenges
National Republican Congressional Committee Chair Richard Hudson expressed confidence, citing redistricting victories and the need to defend "Trump seats." He argued Democrats would have to win many such seats to gain the majority, which he deemed unlikely. Representative Ralph Norman predicted Trump would end the Iran conflict quickly, aligning with public opinion to "end it quick." However, outgoing Representative Don Bacon criticized the go-it-alone approach, urging more bipartisan cooperation.
Democrats Face Their Own Woes
Despite GOP struggles, Democrats are not without issues. A Washington Post-Ipsos poll showed highly motivated voters backing Democrats, but only a slim advantage over Republicans overall. Progressive Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez noted uncertainty about what it means to be a Democrat, highlighting active primary debates over Israel policy and centrist versus leftwing candidates. She sees hope in these substantive conversations defining the party's direction.
