Senate Prepares For Vote On Government Funding Extension

U.S. Senate U.S. Senate Democrats weekly policy lunch at U.S. Capitol in Washington

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has initiated steps to potentially set up a vote next week on a government funding extension as the deadline for a shutdown approaches at the end of the month. This move comes after the House failed to pass a six-month GOP funding plan that included a controversial measure targeting non-citizen voting.

Following the House's inability to pass the GOP plan, Senate GOP Whip John Thune expressed hope that the House would introduce an alternative plan, potentially moving a short-term bill into December that excludes the contentious voting measure and instead funds the government at current levels while addressing immediate needs such as disaster relief.

Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has called for a government shutdown if the voting measure, known as the SAVE Act, is not passed into law. However, Senate Democrats are advocating for an extension into December that does not include the SAVE Act, which they view as a non-starter in the Senate.

Senate Majority Leader Schumer criticized the handling of the issue by House Speaker Johnson, stating that the speaker had 'totally flopped' in his attempt to pass the GOP plan. Schumer emphasized the need for both parties to work together to find a solution to keep the government open.

House fails to pass GOP funding plan with controversial voting measure.

Senate Majority Leader Schumer initiates vote on government funding extension.

Senate GOP Whip Thune hopes for alternative plan without contentious measure.

Despite the pressure and challenges faced by Speaker Johnson in navigating a narrow majority and addressing Trump's demands for the SAVE Act, Senate Democrats are focused on preventing a government shutdown and ensuring the continuity of essential services.

In response to Trump's call for Republicans to shut down the government if the voting proposal is not passed, Schumer highlighted that a shutdown would reflect poorly on the Republican Party and emphasized the importance of avoiding such a scenario.

As discussions continue between Senate leaders and the House, the focus remains on finding a viable path forward to fund the government and address critical issues without resorting to a shutdown. Both sides are working towards a resolution to prevent any disruptions in government operations.