Government Shutdown Avoided By Banning Pride Flags And Closing DEI Office [Video]

On Saturday, Congress passed a government spending bill morning to avert a partial government shutdown, but the legislation has triggered complaints from both parties. Several provisions have drawn criticism, including a ban on pride flags at U.S. embassies and the absence of additional funding for border security. As part of the spending bill, the House Office of Diversity and Inclusion will be closed down and replaced by the Office of Talent Management. This move comes four years after the establishment of the non-partisan diversity office aimed at promoting diversity within Congress. Another contentious provision prohibits the flying or displaying of any flag other than the U.S. flag at U.S. State Department facilities. This reverses a 2021 authorization allowing U.S. embassies to display LGBTQ+ pride flags. House Speaker Mike Johnson reportedly advocated for this provision, which drew criticism from the White House, promising to work towards its repeal. The Human Rights …