WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – Time is running out for Congress to pass a budget.

The government funding deadline is just two weeks away and lawmakers haven’t reached a deal yet.

The budget situation on Capitol Hill is uncertain, with shifting power dynamics, there’s a debate about how to move forward with a government spending plan.

“I’m cautiously optimistic. I’m doing one of these as the double Catholic Irish Italian that I am that we can get it done,” said Rep. Pat Fallon (R-Texas.).

Congressman Pat Fallon has faith lawmakers will pass a spending bill before the December 20th shutdown deadline.

“We’ll be here as long as we have to, because we don’t want the government to shut down. At least I don’t. I know the majority of my Republican colleagues don’t as well,” said Fallon.

House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) says negotiators are trying to come to an agreement on a full year-long budget but notes there are still some issues they need to resolve to reach a deal.

“Bipartisan conversations continue to be underway,” said Jeffries.

In January Republicans will take control of the House, the Senate, and the White House and some want to pass a short-term budget instead, so Republicans can dictate the full budget when they have complete government control.

Congressman Pete Sessions (R-Texas.) expects they’ll vote to extend the funding deadline into February.

“Allowing this new administration to put their ducks in a row and come back and finalize where we will move,” said Sessions.

There is some push back on the stopgap funding plan.  Democratic Senator Tim Kaine says he’s still hoping Congress will move forward with the full spending package.

“I don’t like doing these short-term CRs but that’s what the Republicans are now saying is all they will accept,” said Kaine.

Some lawmakers are pushing to attach a disaster relief package to whatever spending bill Congress passes to get relief to communities impacted by Hurricane Helene.