The ongoing failure of House Republicans to select a new Speaker of the House is raising concerns about a potential government shutdown next month. The internal dysfunction within the GOP has resulted in a lack of leadership and a halt in policy discussions, despite pressing issues such as the conflict in Israel and the impending expiration of federal funding. With the deadline to fund the government approaching on November 17, the GOP's inability to choose a speaker is becoming a serious concern.

Eight Republicans are currently vying for the speaker's position, but none of them have secured the necessary votes to claim the role. The party will meet in private on Tuesday to try to select a candidate, but time is running out. The longer the Republicans delay, the less time they will have to reach a funding deal and prevent a government shutdown.

In contrast, the Democratic-controlled Senate has been actively working on longer-term spending bills and has shown support for short-term funding measures to keep the government operating at current spending levels. The stark contrast between the two chambers highlights the GOP's internal divisions and the potential consequences of their inaction.

As the clock ticks down, fears of a government shutdown are growing. The odds of a shutdown are increasing, and if it happens, the majority of blame will likely fall on the Republicans. The situation presents a significant challenge for any newly elected speaker, who will have to navigate a fractious conference and make difficult decisions with limited time.