Government Shutdown Looms as GOP Hardliners and Centrist Dems Fail to Strike Defense Bill Deal

House Republicans have voted down a rule that would have advanced a Defense Department bill, dealing another blow to Speaker Kevin McCarthy and House Republican leadership. This defeat highlights divisions within the House Republican Conference and their struggle to unify behind a plan to fund the government. McCarthy's thin margin in the chamber means he can only afford to lose four members without Democratic support. McCarthy has presented a new plan to keep the government open, including spending cuts and border security measures, in an attempt to win over wary members. Republican leadership plans to stay in session Friday and Saturday amid the standoff.