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, there is no clear consensus on a path forward. Vulnerable lawmakers are eager to hit the campaign trail for the November elections, adding urgency to the situation.
Former President Trump has weighed in on the funding fight, stating that Republicans should not pass a funding extension without 'absolute assurances' on election security. This stance could complicate efforts to avert a shutdown, as a 'clean' funding extension is seen as the most viable solution on Capitol Hill.
Speaker Johnson has proposed a six-month funding plan that includes the SAVE Act, a bill requiring proof of US citizenship to register to vote in federal elections. However, this plan faces opposition in 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 GOP funding plan was pulled 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. Senator Susan Collins warned against a six-month funding extension, stating it would have 'catastrophic consequences' for national defense and government operations.
Congress is running out of time to avoid a shutdown, with Collins expressing concern about the looming deadline. As the November elections draw near, achieving bipartisanship may become even more challenging.
Schumer announced that the Senate will vote on an IVF bill, highlighting GOP opposition to the bill in the past. The political landscape remains tense as both parties grapple with key issues amidst the funding fight and upcoming elections.
