Mike Johnson schedules vote on bill to prevent government shutdown

Speaker Mike Johnson announced on Sunday that the House will be voting on a three-month stopgap funding bill to keep the federal government open until Dec. 20. This measure aims to prevent a government shutdown that would otherwise occur at the start of next month if no congressional action is taken. The bill includes only necessary extensions in order to sustain government operations. The plan does not incorporate the SAVE Act requiring proof of citizenship to register to vote and allocates an additional $231 million for Secret Service operations. The Rules Committee is set to review the CR, and it is expected to be featured on the House floor on Wednesday. The White House is urging swift passage of the bipartisan measure. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer praised the agreement but criticized the delay in negotiations. Schumer expressed optimism that the government shutdown could be avoided, emphasizing the need for bipartisan cooperation. Discussions about funding the government have been strained, particularly with the proximity of the presidential election. Johnson has faced challenges in aligning party members on a spending plan, especially after former President Donald Trump suggested shutting down the government for political reasons. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell emphasized the importance of avoiding a shutdown, highlighting that the blame would likely fall on Republicans. Overall, the focus is on passing the short-term funding bill to prevent a disruption to essential government functions.

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