House GOP Divided: Temporary Spending Bill Rejected Amid Controversial Election Measure Debate
September 20, 2024House Speaker Mike Johnson is working on a temporary spending bill to prevent a government shutdown as the current funding expires on October 1.
However, Johnson's efforts faced a setback when House Republicans failed to pass a funding bill that included a controversial voting measure backed by Donald Trump.
The proposal was rejected by a vote of 220 against to 202 in favor, with 14 Republicans joining Democrats in opposition.
Some Republicans are advocating for a six-month extension of funding, hoping to leverage the situation if Donald Trump wins the upcoming election.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer warned that such a lengthy extension would undermine military funding and create uncertainty for essential government agencies.
Trump's insistence on linking the funding bill to the 'Save Act' complicates negotiations, as he has encouraged Republicans to shut down the government if the act is not passed.
In contrast, Mitch McConnell has warned that a government shutdown would be politically detrimental for Republicans ahead of the election.
The rejected budget proposal included a provision requiring proof of citizenship for national election registration, which Democrats argue could disenfranchise voters.
Johnson emphasized the need to fund the government responsibly while ensuring election security, arguing that preventing non-citizens from voting is what the majority of Americans demand.
Even if the House passes a new bill, it is expected to face rejection in the Senate, creating a potential conflict as the funding deadline approaches.
Looking ahead, Congress faces another critical deadline on January 1 to address the nation's debt ceiling to avoid defaulting on over $35 trillion in debt.
Without a stopgap spending bill, thousands of federal workers may face furloughs due to a lack of funding.
Summary based on 17 sources
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Sources
The Guardian • Sep 18, 2024
US House will vote on doomed funding bill as shutdown deadline nearsYahoo News • Sep 18, 2024
House to vote on Speaker Mike Johnson's funding plan as shutdown loomsAP News • Sep 17, 2024
Speaker Johnson sets House vote on government funding bill after a one-week postponement