Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., remains committed to advancing his government funding bill on the House floor despite rising dissent from within his party. The potential failure of his initial strategy to prevent a government shutdown at the end of the month could pose significant challenges for House Republicans, who currently hold a narrow majority.
Johnson faces pressure from Donald Trump, who urged Republicans to shut down the government if they are unable to attach funding measures to the SAVE Act, legislation aimed at reforming voting laws to require proof of citizenship for voter registration. Trump took to Truth Social to emphasize the need for firm assurances on election security, stating that if such assurances are not obtained, Republicans “SHOULD, IN NO WAY, SHAPE, OR FORM, GO FORWARD WITH A CONTINUING RESOLUTION ON THE BUDGET… CLOSE IT DOWN!!!”
While Johnson has echoed Trump’s sentiments, the proposed plan is likely to be dismissed in the Democratic-controlled Senate and faces a veto from the White House. Democrats and some Republicans are advocating for a straightforward continuing resolution that would keep the government funded until December, extending beyond the upcoming election.
After a meeting with Republicans, Johnson defended his approach, which involves a six-month continuing resolution linked to the SAVE Act. “I am in this to win this,” he stated, expressing his determination to see the proposal through. He noted that he believes a substantial majority of Americans support the principles behind the SAVE Act.
The process began with Republicans passing a rule on the debate and presentation of the continuing resolution. However, dissent is brewing among GOP members, with several indicating they will oppose the underlying bill. If all lawmakers vote, Republicans can only afford four defections, yet at least half a dozen have already declared their intent to vote against it.
Concerns have been raised about the impact of linking the SAVE Act with funding measures, with some Republicans arguing it may not effectively address critical issues like border security and government spending. Rep. Dan Meuser, R-Pa., acknowledged the lack of consensus among party members but backed Johnson’s plan, suggesting that extending funding into early 2025 would prevent the incorporation of unwanted legislative measures just before the holidays.
Senate Republicans are wary of the potential ramifications of a government shutdown close to the elections, with some stating that such actions have historically harmed the party’s standing.