House Freedom Caucus comes out swinging against Johnson plan to avert shutdown

The House Freedom Caucus came out against Speaker Mike Johnson's plan to avert a government shutdown on Tuesday, which he must now pass with Democratic support. 

"The House Freedom Caucus opposes the proposed ‘clean’ Continuing Resolution as it contains no spending reductions, no border security, and not a single meaningful win for the American People," the hardline conservatives said in a statement released Tuesday morning. "Republicans must stop negotiating against ourselves over fears of what the Senate may do with the promise ‘roll over today and we’ll fight tomorrow.'" 

"While we remain committed to working with Speaker Johnson, we need bold change," the group added.

The Nov. 17 deadline to fund the government is Johnson's first major legislative test as speaker. 

DEMOCRAT SUPPORT CRITICAL FOR JOHNSON'S PLAN TO AVOID SHUTDOWN AMID GROWING GOP OPPOSITION

The Louisiana Republican on Sunday proposed a short-term government funding extension known as a continuing resolution (CR) that would keep the government open. But the bill has no spending cuts, and GOP hardliners say they will not vote to keep spending at current levels – which were set by the previous, Democratic-controlled Congress. 

With their narrow House majority, Republican leadership can only afford four defections to pass something on party lines. 

But at least five GOP lawmakers were publicly opposed to Johnson's plan as of Monday morning, and now dozens more have joined them with the Freedom Caucus' official position declared.

Even if the House were to pass a funding bill with conservative policy riders and significant spending cuts, the bill would go nowhere in the Democratic-controlled Senate.

SPEAKER JOHNSON DRAWS BATTLE LINES AHEAD OF GOVERNMENT SPENDING SHOWDOWN

"Speaker Johnson and the House GOP should learn from the fiasco of a month ago: Hard right proposals, hard right cuts, hard right poison pills that have zero support from Democrats will only make a MAGA government shutdown more likely," Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., warned last week.

Johnson’s plan would create two separate deadlines for funding different parts of the government to set up more targeted goals to work toward.

It first forces lawmakers to reckon with some of the traditionally less controversial appropriations bills – those concerning military construction and Veterans Affairs; Agriculture; Energy and Water; Transportation and Housing and Urban Development. The remaining eight appropriations bills must be worked out by Feb. 2.

An official position from the Freedom Caucus requires 80% support from the group's roughly three dozen members, but it does not mean every one of them opposed Johnson's plan. 

REPUBLICANS TALKING WITH DEMOCRATS TO GAUGE WHERE VOTES MAY LIE TO PASS SPENDING BILL, AVOID SHUTDOWN

Some Freedom Caucus members have voiced support for the two-step approach, including Rep. Andy Harris, R-Md., who called it "a way to get the broken appropriations process back on track without resulting in a massive omnibus spending bill." 

Fox News Digital is told that the Democratic leadership team is trying to determine where its members stand.

The endorsement of the bill by Schumer helped ease some fears of many Democrats, Fox News Digital was told.

The House is expected to hold at least a procedural vote to advance the bill on Tuesday. 

Fox News Digital's Elizabeth Elkind, Stepheny Price and Chad Pergram contributed to this report.

Exploring Thailand's tapestry of tradition, adventure, timeless beauty

Thailand, often hailed as the "Land of Smiles," beckons travelers with its enchanting fusion of rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty.

This travel guide serves as your portal to an unforgettable Thai adventure, navigating through vibrant cities and tranquil islands to unveil the diverse tapestry of experiences this captivating destination has to offer.

The majority of international flights touch down in Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand. Serving as the primary gateway, Suvarnabhumi Airport provides connectivity. Once immersed in the energy of Bangkok, a network of domestic flights, buses and trains make it easy to explore the entire country.

THAILAND KICKS OFF 3-DAY SONGKRAN FESTIVAL FOR FIRST TIME SINCE 2019, HOPING FOR SIGNIFICANT BOOST IN TOURISM

The cost of a trip to Thailand can vary widely depending on several factors, such as your travel style, duration of stay, choice of accommodation, activities and personal preferences.

Flights: The cost of round-trip flights from major cities varies, ranging from $600 to $1,200 or more.

Accommodation: Depending on your preferences, budget hostels or guesthouses can cost between $10 and $30 per night, mid-range hotels between $30 and $100, and luxury resorts exceeding $200 per night.

Activities: Budgeting $20 to $100 per activity covers entrance fees to attractions, guided tours and recreational activities.

It is recommended to plan a budget based on your specific preferences and travel plans.

Embarking on a Thai adventure is often ideal during the cool and dry season, spanning from November to February.

This timeframe is favored for its pleasant temperatures and reduced weather-related disruptions. Yet, the best time to visit Thailand hinges on your preferred experiences, as other seasons throughout the year may offer unique charms and suitability for specific activities.

SEA TURTLE WITH NET AROUND ITS NECK IS RESCUED BY TOUR GUIDE IN HEROIC MOMENT

During this season, the weather is cooler, and there is less rainfall. It's ideal for beach vacations, exploring cities, and outdoor activities. However, it aligns with the peak tourist season, particularly in December and January, potentially resulting in heightened crowds at popular destinations.

As the hot season unfolds, temperatures soar, occasionally accompanied by brief rain showers from March to May. This is a good time for beach enthusiasts, though inland areas may experience substantial heat. For those who relish warmth, this remains a viable time to visit, particularly in the northern regions of Thailand.

The rainy season, spanning from June to October, welcomes heightened rainfall. While the rain can be heavy, it often comes in short bursts, painting the landscapes in hues of green. This period marks the low tourist season, promising lower prices and popular attractions are less crowded.

Airplanes stand out as the most efficient mode of transportation in Thailand. The country's air network connects Bangkok to key tourist hotspots like Chiang Mai, Ko Samui, Phuket and Krabi.

Particularly for island destinations, certain low-cost carriers extend their services to include seamless airport-bus-ferry transfers, providing a convenient and well-integrated travel experience.

If you’re not in a hurry, and if the rails lead to where you want to go, the State Railway of Thailand offers an economical and comfortable mode of transportation. The extensive rail network comprises four primary long-distance lines that crisscross the country: Northern, Northeastern, Eastern, and Southern. 

Embarking on a train journey becomes not just a means of travel but an immersive experience, allowing travelers to savor the scenic beauty and cultural tapestry of Thailand.

WATCH: SHARKS SWARM OFFSHORE OF POPULAR TOURIST BEACH AS BEACHGOERS KEEP DISTANCE

Buses and minivans are the backbone of Thailand's transportation network, offering an extensive and cost-effective travel option. There are a variety of bus companies, but the most reliable are those run by the government-subsidized The Transport Co.

To ensure a seamless journey, secure your tickets either online or in person at the bus station, steering clear of potential scams. Locations where buses operate directly from tourist hubs like Bangkok's Khao San Road, incidents of baggage theft and commission-seeking stops have been reported.

Although renting a car in Thailand may seem intimidating, driving presents an opportunity to explore beyond urban landscapes. However, it's crucial to approach this adventure with caution, given the country's challenging road conditions.

Car rentals are conveniently available in major cities and airports, offered by both local companies and well-known international chains. For the latter, most businesses ask that you leave your passport as a deposit.

Embark on your Thai adventure by immersing yourself in the heartbeat of Bangkok. Begin your exploration with iconic landmarks like the Grand Palace, Wat Pho and Wat Arun.

Journey northward to uncover the charm of Chiang Mai. Immerse yourself in spirituality at the Doi Suthep Temple, traverse the historic temples nestled within the Old City, and dive into the ambiance of the Night Bazaar. Elevate your experience by seizing the chance to interact with elephants at one of the many esteemed sanctuaries.

Indulge in the ultimate trifecta of sun, sea and sand by making Phuket a pivotal destination on your itinerary. Unwind on the picturesque Patong Beach, delve into the nocturnal scene of the nightlife, and embark on a boat excursion to the Phi Phi Islands.

Dive into Thailand's past by visiting the ancient city of Ayutthaya, where you can explore ruins such as Wat Mahathat and Wat Phra Si Sanphet. You can also take a boat tour along the Chao Phraya River to witness the city's historical grandeur.

AILING THAI ELEPHANT RETURNS HOME FROM SRI LANKA AFTER YEARS OF POSSIBLE NEGLECT, ABUSE

Embrace the essence of Thai culture by honoring local customs and traditions, such as the respectful practice of removing shoes before entering homes or temples. The Thai people are known for their hospitality, so they will reciprocate with kindness.

Use a combination of tuk-tuks, taxis and public transportation for local travel. In cities like Bangkok, the Skytrain and metro systems provide convenient and efficient options.

Prepare for Thailand's tropical climate by packing thoughtfully. Tailor your luggage to the specific weather conditions of the regions you intend to explore, ensuring you have essentials like sunscreen, mosquito repellent and lightweight clothing.

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