House Speaker Mike Johnson warned Wednesday that the Trump administration’s effort to keep military families paid during the ongoing government shutdown is only a temporary fix that could soon expire. Speaking at a Capitol press conference, Johnson explained that rerouting unspent Pentagon research and development funds to cover military paychecks cannot be sustained indefinitely.

“The problem we have right now is that, in spite of President Trump’s heroic efforts to make sure they get paid, that is a temporary fix,” Johnson said. He emphasized that the executive branch’s help is not permanent and warned that if Democrats continue to block government funding, U.S. troops risk missing full paychecks by the end of the month.

The shutdown began earlier this month after the Senate failed to pass a funding measure, furloughing thousands of federal workers. Essential personnel, including active-duty military and law enforcement, continue to work without pay until the shutdown ends.

The House passed a short-term continuing resolution on September 19 to fund the government through November 21, allowing more time for budget negotiations. However, the Senate requires 60 votes for passage, and only three Democrats have crossed party lines to support it. Democratic leadership, led by Chuck Schumer, opposes the measure, pushing instead for a package including an extension of Affordable Care Act tax credits.

Johnson criticized Senate Democrats for using the shutdown as political leverage and said Republicans are exploring ways to ensure pay continues for service members and law enforcement if the shutdown persists. He urged Democrats to agree to reopen the government, calling it the only real solution.