Special Poll
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer indicated that he expects the House proposal to fail and hopes for a bipartisan solution afterward.
Government Shutdown Before Election:
Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell warned Congress that a government shutdown close to the election would be a terrible political move, particularly for Republicans, who would likely bear the blame.
McConnell’s Warning:
McConnell expressed his view that Republicans should avoid pushing the government into a shutdown. He explained that doing so would be “politically beyond stupid,” especially in the weeks leading up to an election.
Speaker Mike Johnson’s Bill:
Speaker Mike Johnson recently introduced a bill that includes a six-month funding measure and a voter registration requirement that mandates proof of citizenship. This proposal is supported by former President Trump.
Johnson faced resistance from within his own party, causing him to pull the bill from the House floor last week.
Democrats’ Concerns:
Democrats have voiced strong opposition to the voter registration requirement in Johnson’s bill, calling it a “poison pill” that could sabotage the funding package.
McConnell’s Position on House Republicans:
While McConnell did not directly call on House Republicans to abandon their plan, he hinted that he wants a bipartisan compromise within the next two weeks to avoid a government shutdown.
Previous Shutdown Experiences:
McConnell referenced an old saying, “there’s no education in the second kick of a mule,” suggesting that Republicans have already learned from previous government shutdowns and should avoid repeating the same mistakes.
House’s Six-Month Continuing Resolution:
McConnell acknowledged concerns raised by some Republicans that a six-month funding resolution might harm defense programs but said he is waiting to see the House’s final proposal before making further judgments.
Senate Democrats’ View:
Senate Appropriations Chair Patty Murray expressed frustration with Johnson’s insistence on combining the funding bill with controversial voter registration changes.