Many Republicans talk about putting America first, but House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) actually did it on Saturday. He reached across the aisle for Democratic support and steered a short-term budget to passage. Yes, the deal came at the “11th hour,” and it’s far from perfect, but it’s in line with what Mr. McCarthy and President Biden agreed to in May when they avoided a debt ceiling crisis. What occurred this weekend was a victory for governance and political stability over far-right GOP extremists who represent just 2 percent of the U.S. population and were making ever-changing demands, including to slash most domestic programs and build more wall along the southern border. Nearly everyone expected a shutdown. Instead, Mr. McCarthy moved toward the center. He deserves a cheer.
His actions are even more commendable given today’s level of partisanship and the relevant recent history. His two immediate predecessors as Republican House speakers — John A. Boehner and Paul D. Ryan — had government shutdowns on their respective watches. Mr. McCarthy’s deal passed with overwhelming bipartisan support: 335-91.
We give Mr. McCarthy only one cheer, however — for three reasons. This outcome should have happened earlier. We urged Mr. McCarthy to reach out to Democrats in mid-September. Our second reservation is that the short-term budget omits additional funding for Ukraine. The timing could not have been less fortunate: Ukraine, on the counteroffensive, is struggling desperately to break through Russian lines, while looking ahead to what will probably be a protracted war. Any apparent cracks in what had previously been bipartisan support for Ukraine plays into the hands of Russian President Vladimir Putin. The $20 billion funding request would make an impact, and Congress needs to approve it within the 45 days’ of extra time Mr. McCarthy’s deal bought.
The third drawback is that the bill funds the government only through Nov. 17 — six days before Thanksgiving. Already, the clock is ticking and another possible shutdown looms. But there is precedent now for Mr. McCarthy to avert a crisis by dealing with Democrats. He’s done it twice. He has realizing that it’s better to partner with Democrats than GOP extremists.
Mr. McCarthy acted as he did knowing that it meant risking a challenge to his speakership from GOP ultras led by Rep. Matt Gaetz (Fla.). We doubt that challenge will prosper. The speaker maintains a strong base of support in the GOP caucus, and no clear alternative candidate has emerged. In the event a serious threat does materialize, it would behoove Democrats to abstain or vote “present,” allowing Mr. McCarthy to keep the gavel despite GOP defections. Doing so would not be a vote for him; it would be a vote for a minimum of functionality in the House.