Speaker Mike Johnson pulled a government funding bill off the House floor after a growing number of Republicans threatened to vote against it. The bill was originally tied to the SAVE Act, which aims to overhaul voting laws by requiring proof of citizenship when registering to vote. Johnson’s strategy to avert a government shutdown at the end of the month is now uncertain, as GOP defectors are causing issues.
The House Republicans have a slim majority, meaning they can only afford four GOP defections when all lawmakers vote. Several Republicans, including Reps. Joe Wilson, Cory Mills, and Jim Banks, have publicly stated they will vote against the stopgap measure. Concerns about fiscal responsibility, defense capabilities, and election integrity are driving some Republicans to oppose the funding bill.
President Trump has insisted that any government funding be tied to the SAVE Act, threatening to shut down the government if Republicans do not secure assurances on election security. However, both parties are eager to avoid a shutdown with the November elections fast approaching.
As the stalemate continues, Speaker Johnson and his leadership team are working to flip GOP defectors and reach a consensus before the government shuts down on October 1. The uncertainty surrounding the funding bill has left lawmakers anxious to return to the campaign trail, with 54 days left before the elections.
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