Speaker Mike Johnson postponed a vote on a temporary spending bill that would fund federal agencies for six months, citing lack of support as a potential government shutdown looms. The bill includes a provision requiring proof of citizenship for voter registration, a point Johnson is not willing to compromise on.
Congress must pass a stopgap spending bill before Oct. 1 to avoid a shutdown just weeks before the election. The bill, set for a vote, faces strong Democratic opposition and skepticism from some Republicans who find the spending levels excessive.
Despite concerns, Johnson had planned to proceed with the vote, emphasizing the importance of securing elections and funding the government responsibly. The bill includes a mandate previously approved by the House in July, which Republicans believe warrants revisiting.
Democrats urge Johnson to focus on a bipartisan short-term spending measure, emphasizing the need for bipartisan support to pass any spending bill. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer called for collaboration to avoid harmful cuts and partisan provisions.
Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump hinted at a potential government shutdown if election security assurances are not met, a stance not supported by Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell, who deemed government shutdowns as detrimental regardless of the circumstances.
