Leaders of the Republican Study Committee (RSC), a 189-member group serving as the House GOP’s conservative think tank, have formally endorsed a new short-term federal funding bill.
According to Fox News, the RSC Steering Committee is calling for an extension of funding “at least into January 2026,” just over two weeks before the Nov. 21 deadline for Republicans’ initial plan.
“Democrats are responsible for the longest government shutdown in U.S. history — paralyzing our country and deepening the healthcare crisis sparked by Obamacare,” the committee said in a statement obtained by Fox News Digital. “House conservatives support a return to regular order accomplished only by a continuing resolution that funds the government at least into January 2026.”
The House previously passed a continuing resolution (CR) on Sept. 19 to extend FY 2025 funding levels for seven weeks, giving lawmakers more time to negotiate FY 2026 federal spending.
Progress in the Senate has stalled, as Democrats demand any spending bill be paired with an extension of expiring COVID-era Obamacare subsidies.
Senate Majority Leader Thune, R-S.D., has suggested a vote on extending the subsidies if Democrats agree to the Republican CR, currently free of policy riders.
The RSC, however, remains opposed.
“We are also committed to delivering a healthcare system that is truly accessible, affordable, and spurs innovation. Congress should reject any extension of the wasteful COVID-era subsidies that fuel fraud and drive up costs,” the statement said.
The latest RSC position, led by Rep. August Pfluger, R-Texas, reflects the likely sentiment of most House Republicans. Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., reportedly signaled support for a January CR during a private call with GOP lawmakers, and House Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole, R-Okla., indicated he could support a similar extension.
However, debate continues within the GOP. Some Republicans, led by Rep. Jen Kiggans, R-Va., support extending the enhanced Obamacare subsidies for a year to prevent Americans from facing higher healthcare costs.
The House Freedom Caucus, led by Rep. Andy Harris, R-Md., has called for a CR extending at least into November 2026, arguing it would keep spending low and avoid another funding fight until after midterms.
Appropriators oppose such a long extension, insisting Congress must set a yearly budget rather than rely on previous spending levels, and it is unclear whether Democrats would accept a year-long CR in the Senate.
The federal government shutdown has now entered its 37th day, marking the longest funding standoff in U.S. history.
