Speaker Mike Johnson Unveils Plan to Avert Government Shutdown

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has unveiled a “laddered” stopgap funding plan that seeks to avert the looming government shutdown. Mr. Johnson’s proposed measure is in the form of a two-step continuing resolution that would fund some parts of the federal government until Jan. 19 and then continue funding others until Feb. 2. The plan is unusual in that lawmakers usually extend funding for all programs until a certain date. Mr. Johnson opted for the arrangement to avoid presenting a single, massive spending bill packed with various spending agendas, which would likely face opposition from those of his fellow Republicans who are laser-focused on fiscal restraint....