House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) emerged from negotiations over a last-minute minibus spending bill, aimed at averting a government shutdown, with a mix of accomplishments and setbacks, reflecting the complexities of bipartisan deal-making.

The $1 trillion, 1,012-page minibus signifies the conclusion of nearly a year of deliberations to fund the government with Johnson's involvement in the negotiations including both achievements and compromises.

How @SpeakerJohnson picked up wins and losses with last-minute spending bill https://t.co/EkaA9qTUql https://t.co/EkaA9qTUql

— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) March 22, 2024

Some wins

One of Johnson's victories in the 2024 spending bill was evident in enhanced provisions for border security. The bill allocated $496 million to hire 22,000 Border Patrol agents, representing the highest level of funding for this purpose to date.

Significant funds were also earmarked for acquiring new border security technology, including autonomous surveillance towers and tunnel detection systems.

Johnson hailed these measures as significant achievements, underscoring their role in strengthening national defense. The substantial increase in defense spending, aligns with his hawkish stance on national defense.

The bill allocated $27 billion more in defense funding compared to the previous year, with a focus on countering threats posed by China. Provisions included enhancements in critical munitions production, increased funding for security cooperation with Taiwan, and measures to prohibit funding for certain entities like the Wuhan Institute of Virology.

Problems remain

However, amidst these wins, Johnson faced some setbacks on border security matters, as highlighted by Democrats. No funding was allocated for the construction of a border wall, a move praised by House Democrats as a departure from what they termed as "failed and destructive" Trump-era policies.

Provisions were also included to support the safe reunification of families separated at the U.S.-Mexico border during the previous administration, signaling a different approach to immigration policy.

Despite these achievements, Johnson faced challenges in curbing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, a key priority for Republicans.

Efforts to restrict funding for DEI initiatives across various government sectors were largely unsuccessful, reflecting the ongoing debate over the role of such programs in government operations.

Schumer on board to avoid shutdown

“This funding agreement between the White House and congressional leaders is good news that comes in the nick of time,” Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) said in a Thursday speech.

“When passed, it will extinguish any more shutdown threats for the rest of the fiscal year,” he added. “It’s now the job of the House Republican leadership to move this package ASAP.”

In navigating the complexities of bipartisan negotiations, Johnson's role exemplifies the balancing act required to advance legislative priorities while accommodating diverse viewpoints and interests, angering many Republicans in the effort to keep the government running.