House Republicans scramble to prevent government shutdown

House Republicans are set to unveil a stopgap measure aimed at preventing a government shutdown, as Moody's lowers its outlook on the U.S. credit rating to "negative." The move comes just a week before federal agencies run out of money without congressional action. Newly installed House Speaker Mike Johnson is discussing options with his slim majority, including the duration of stopgap funding while negotiating spending legislation for the 2024 fiscal year. The move has sparked blame between the White House and Republicans. The House and Senate must agree on a spending vehicle by November 17 to avoid a partial government shutdown. House Republicans hope to vote on a stopgap measure that could extend funding into mid-January, with some calling for a "clean" continuing resolution.