Our Nonprofit and Public Agencies practice kicked off a series of webinars tracking post-election and federal trends. Featuring Ellen Riddleberger and Angie Melton, M&Q leaders and experienced Congressional Appropriations staff, the well-attended event reviewed federal budget implications following the election and what to expect in 2025.
Post-Election Federal Budget Implications and What to Expect in 2025
Our team discussed how the current Congress has experienced significant political division, resulting in challenges in advancing key legislation. For example, while nearly 19,000 bills were introduced, only 137 were passed by the House and Senate and signed into law. This gridlock mirrors the same polarized environment that shaped much of President-elect Trump’s first term. This historical context provides insight into potential challenges Trump might face in his first year of a second term, including a contentious relationship with Congress due to the small margins Republicans hold in both chambers.
With the continuing resolution set to expire on December 20, 2024, Congress faces pressure to either pass another temporary funding measure or finalize the annual spending bills. Congress will likely pass another continuing resolution into March 2025, leaving the responsibility for the fiscal year 2025 appropriations to the next president and Congress.
Since the GOP holds a historically slim majority in the House and a 60-vote threshold in the Senate, the path forward remains uncertain. President-elect Trump has indicated that his first 100 days will focus on tax and immigration policy. Budget reconciliation could play a role in addressing these priorities. Additionally, initiatives led by Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, aiming to save $2 trillion through government efficiency, are still in development and could shape future fiscal decisions.
We will post information on the next webinar in the series in the new year.