Speaker Johnson Expresses Confidence in Securing Votes to Avert Partial Shutdown by Tuesday

WASHINGTON, Feb 1 (Reuters) — U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed confidence on Sunday that he has garnered the necessary Republican votes to pass a short-term funding measure and bring an end to the ongoing partial government shutdown, aiming for a resolution by Tuesday.

In an interview with NBC's "Meet the Press," Johnson acknowledged the pressing timeline, stating, "I'm confident that we'll get this done by Tuesday at the latest." He cited significant logistical challenges, noting, "We have the hurdle of getting every member back to Washington." This complication stems from a major snowstorm that has disrupted travel across the southeastern United States, leaving several lawmakers stranded in their home districts.

The partial shutdown, now in its third day, has affected a range of non-essential federal services and agencies. Failure to pass a continuing resolution by Tuesday would risk a more widespread lapse in funding. Political analysts suggest that Johnson's public assurance is a strategic move to pressure holdouts within his own party and demonstrate control ahead of a critical week for appropriations.

Expert & Public Reaction:

"Johnson's optimism is a necessary signal to the markets and federal employees, but the real test is on the House floor. The weather is an unexpected variable squeezing an already tight schedule." — Dr. Evelyn Reed, Political Science Professor at Georgetown University.

"This is pure political theater. They created this crisis, and now they want applause for potentially solving it days late while federal workers fret over paychecks? The 'logistical challenge' is a convenient excuse for internal party disarray." — Marcus Thorne, small business owner and veteran from Virginia.

"As a contractor for a affected agency, Tuesday can't come soon enough. The uncertainty is paralyzing for project planning and our team's morale. I hope the Speaker's confidence is well-founded." — Priya Sharma, federal IT contractor based in Maryland.

"The focus should be on a long-term budget, not another stopgap. However, given the circumstances, a Tuesday resolution to restore services is the immediate priority for my constituents." — Rep. David Chen (D-CA), via a staff statement.

(Reporting by Timothy Gardner; Editing by Alexander Smith. Additional background and analysis by Reuters.)