Congress avoided a government shutdown but faces a new political crisis as Congressman Matt Gates, a critic of House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, threatens to remove him from his role. McCarthy vows not to back down, and House Republicans are divided on the potential move. A single motion to vacate could trigger a vote for McCarthy's speakership, and Democrats might also need to support him if more than five Republicans vote no. President Biden urges lawmakers to avoid further brinksmanship. Additionally, there's an investigation into Democratic Congressman Jamal Bowman allegedly pulling a fire alarm during a vote, causing confusion and accusations.
Sure, here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. Congress managed to avoid a government shutdown.
2. There's a new political crisis developing involving House Speaker Kevin McCarthy.
3. Florida Congressman Matt Gates plans to force Speaker McCarthy out of his role.
4. President Biden criticized House GOP for dropping Ukraine aid from a funding package.
5. Speaker McCarthy believes border security is a bigger priority than Ukraine aid.
6. Congressman Jamal Bowman is being investigated for allegedly pulling a fire alarm during a vote.
7. Some Republicans are drafting a resolution to potentially expel Congressman Bowman.
8. Congress passed a short-term funding bill to buy more time.
9. Congressional leaders are working on Appropriations bills to fund federal agencies on a longer-term basis.
These are the key factual points from the text.