Senator Lindsey Graham warned that he may block a government funding agreement unless lawmakers move forward with a House-passed repeal measure that he supports, signaling deepening divisions ahead of a key budget deadline.
Graham told colleagues he won’t easily drop the issue and urged negotiators to include the repeal effort — aimed at reversing specific federal policies — in the broader spending deal. He made clear that failure to address his concerns could lead him to oppose the package, raising the risk of a partial government shutdown.
The dispute stems from a House-approved repeal bill that has not advanced in the Senate. Graham says including it in funding negotiations is critical, and he has framed his stance as a matter of principle and accountability.
Republican and Democratic leaders are scrambling to finalize appropriations before funding expires, and Graham’s remarks underscore how intraparty differences could complicate last-minute negotiations. Both parties have been working to craft compromise measures that keep most government agencies funded while resolving contentious policy issues.
Graham’s threat highlights frustration among some lawmakers who believe that key legislative priorities are being sidelined in favor of broader budget deals. His statement that “I won’t forget this” reflects his determination to press for inclusion of the repeal provision, even as leaders seek to avoid a shutdown.
With time running short, the standoff adds pressure on Capitol Hill as negotiators try to reconcile competing priorities and secure the votes needed to pass critical funding bills. Graham’s stance illustrates how single policy disputes can influence high-stakes appropriations talks and shape the final outcome.