Rep. Mike Simpson Pushes Budget Reforms to Reduce Government Shutdowns
Forbes Breaking News aired a clip of Rep. Mike Simpson (R-ID) speaking during a July 22, 2026, House Appropriations Committee hearing on legislation to prevent government shutdowns. Simpson discussed the history of the filibuster, the constitutional role of appropriations, the need for budget resolutions, and how narrow majorities increase shutdown risks. He advocated returning to regular order under the 1974 Budget Act and greater compromise. The segment draws from Simpson's remarks in a hearing also featuring Sen. James Lankford's Prevent Government Shutdowns Act proposal for automatic continuing resolutions. Other participants included Chairman Tom Cole, Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro, and OMB Director Shalanda Young. The throughline is congressional dysfunction in the appropriations process amid recent 2025-2026 shutdowns.
Source: Forbes Breaking News