4 New Questions That Will Determine A Government Shutdown

Two weeks ago I said there were five questions that would determine if there would be a federal government shutdown.

Given all that has…and hasn’t…happened since that post, there are now four new questions that will determine whether the government turns into a fiscal pumpkin at midnight on September 30, that is, less than a week from now.

All but one of the questions focus on the House because Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) is able to work with Democrats to get the votes needed to pass a “clean” continuing resolution that keeps funds for Planned Parenthood at current levels. Unlike House Speaker John Boehner (R-OH), McConnell isn’t facing a direct challenge to his position and can bring a clean bill to the Senate floor with impunity.

But the one Senate-related question is still significant and could make a shutdown more likely.

1. Will Ted Cruz go quietly?

2. Is the danger to Boehner real or is the Freedom Caucus’ threat to unseat him yet another empty gesture?

3. Will House Democrats play?

4. Does Boehner Need A Shutdown to keep his job?

More From Forbes: