House Blocks Temporary Funding Bill to Prevent Government Shutdown

In a recent vote, the House rejected Speaker Mike Johnson’s proposal to tie temporary federal government funding to a requirement for proof of citizenship when registering to vote. The measure, seen as a key Republican priority, was turned down with a vote tally of 220 to 202. Alongside the unified Democratic opposition, 14 Republicans also voted against the bill.

The failed vote raises concerns about the next steps for government funding. As lawmakers grapple with completing the annual appropriations bills essential for funding federal agencies for the upcoming fiscal year, they now face the need for a stopgap measure to prevent a government shutdown on October 1.

Johnson expressed his disappointment following the vote but indicated that he was in the process of formulating a backup plan to avoid a government shutdown, although he withheld specifics. “We’ll draw up another play and we’ll come up with a solution,” Johnson remarked, emphasizing his ongoing dialogues with fellow lawmakers to find a path forward.

This bill had initially been pulled from consideration prior to the latest vote as Johnson struggled to secure sufficient support within his party. Despite his efforts over the weekend to rally Republicans, he faced resistance over proposed spending levels and calls from some to dismiss continuance resolutions, insisting that Congress should follow through on passing annual appropriations bills individually and promptly. The obstacle was further complicated by overwhelming Democratic disapproval.

The proposal to require proof of citizenship for new voters emerged as a prominent issue during this election cycle for Republicans, who raised concerns about potential noncitizen voting—despite existing laws prohibiting such actions and research indicating that instances of noncitizen participation in elections are exceedingly rare.

Critics argue that implementing such a requirement could disenfranchise millions who may lack easy access to documentation like birth certificates or passports, especially during voter registration activities conducted at schools or churches. In contrast, Johnson has warned about the implications of any noncitizen votes, citing narrow wins in past elections as evidence that even a minor fraction could sway outcomes.

Before the vote, Johnson stated, “It’s very, very serious stuff and that’s why we’re going to do the right thing. We’re going to responsibly fund the government and we’re going to stop noncitizens voting in elections.”

Adding to the tension ahead of the vote, former President Donald Trump urged House Republicans to stand firm against any government funding proposals unless they included the proposed proof of citizenship mandate, known as the SAVE Act. “If Republicans don’t get the SAVE Act, and every ounce of it, they should not agree to a Continuing Resolution in any way, shape, or form,” Trump posted on the social media platform Truth Social.

Democrats have called for avoiding partisan tactics in a critical funding bill, pushing for collaborative efforts instead. “This is not going to become law,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar, D-Calif. He termed the situation as a display of “Republican theatrics,” aimed at catering to the most extreme elements within the party and supporting the former president’s narrative against immigrants.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., also predicted that Johnson’s initiative would not succeed and pointed out the necessity for a bipartisan approach, stating, “The only thing that will accomplish is make clear that he’s running into a dead end.”

The proposed legislation aimed to fund government agencies at current levels until March 28 while Congress negotiated a comprehensive spending agreement. However, Democrats and certain Republicans are advocating for a more prompt resolution to the funding issue, which would permit deliberations on a final spending bill post-election.

Conversely, Johnson and some conservative faction members of his party are favoring an extended six-month funding period, potentially leveraging greater influence if Trump were to win the presidency again. In this context, Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell refrained from indicating a preferred duration for funding extension, suggesting that Johnson and Schumer will need to broker a consensus that secures approval across both legislative chambers.

Despite the failed vote, Republican leaders aimed to reassure colleagues concerned about a potential shutdown, with Rep. Mike Lawler, R-N.Y., asserting that even in light of the setback, another stopgap measure should be introduced to permit lawmakers to return post-election to complete the necessary appropriations work. “The bottom line is we’re not shutting the government down,” Lawler stated.

Conversely, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries condemned Republicans for what he characterized as a deliberate shutdown effort, stating, “That’s not hyperbole. It’s history.” He emphasized the history of extreme MAGA Republicans making significant demands that could lead to a government shutdown if unmet.

Earlier, in July, the House had passed a bill that included the proof of citizenship mandate. Some Republican lawmakers, believing that the issue resonates with their constituents, have been seeking another opportunity to demonstrate their backing for it. For instance, Rep. Robert Aderholt, R-Ala., referenced a recent announcement in his state regarding individuals whose noncitizen status was linked to their voter registration, asserting that the SAVE Act would prevent similar cases in the future and secure the integrity of electoral participation.