Speaker Mike Johnson is currently navigating a government funding fight amidst pressure from a narrow majority in the House and former President Donald Trump. With a shutdown deadline looming at the end of the month, Congress is struggling to find a consensus on the way forward. The urgency is heightened by the upcoming November elections, as lawmakers aim to hit the campaign trail soon, and the potential fallout at the ballot box if a shutdown occurs.
The speaker's decisions in this funding battle could impact his leadership post-election, especially with Trump weighing in on the issue. Trump's demand for election security assurances before passing a funding extension adds another layer of complexity to the situation. Johnson's proposed six-month funding plan, which includes the controversial SAVE Act, faces opposition in both the Senate and within the House GOP conference.
Despite emphasizing agreement with Trump, Johnson's options are limited due to the narrow majority in the House and Democratic control of the Senate. A recent attempt to pass the GOP funding plan was abandoned after facing opposition from both Republicans and Democrats.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized Johnson's approach, calling for a bipartisan bill to address the funding issue. However, achieving bipartisanship may prove challenging as the November elections draw nearer.
Schumer announced plans for the Senate to vote on an IVF bill, highlighting GOP opposition to the bill in the past. The political landscape remains tense as both parties navigate the funding fight and election-related issues.
