House Speaker Mike Johnson’s proposal to link federal government funding for the new budget year with a mandate requiring states to demand proof of citizenship from voters is set to be voted on by the House on Wednesday. Johnson had previously pulled the bill due to concerns within the Republican ranks but is determined to proceed with the vote. Democrats overwhelmingly oppose the measure, arguing that voter fraud by non-citizens is rare and already illegal.
While lawmakers are not close to finalizing the annual appropriations bills to fund agencies for the next fiscal year, a stopgap measure will be necessary to prevent a partial government shutdown on October 1. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer emphasized the need for a bipartisan agreement to prevent a shutdown and criticized Johnson’s bill as doomed to fail.
Johnson is advocating for a six-month extension in the hope that a Republican victory in the election will give them more leverage in crafting the full-year spending bill. Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell emphasized the need to avoid a government shutdown before the election, as it would be politically damaging.
Despite Trump’s previous statements suggesting support for a government shutdown over election security concerns, Johnson is pushing for the proof of citizenship mandate. The House previously approved a similar bill in July, demonstrating Republican interest in demonstrating support for the measure. Ultimately, the fate of the bill will depend on bipartisan cooperation and negotiation to prevent a government shutdown and ensure continued funding for federal agencies.
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