As Congress returns from recess, Speaker Mike Johnson is poised to introduce a short-term government funding bill that extends federal funding through March 2025 and includes the controversial Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, which mandates proof of citizenship to vote. This strategy, supported by hard-line conservatives and former President Donald Trump, is expected to create a partisan showdown with Senate Democrats who oppose the voter eligibility requirements. Johnson's move comes as he seeks to solidify GOP priorities ahead of the November elections, despite concerns about the bill's viability in the Senate. The SAVE Act has already passed the House but stalled in the Senate, and its inclusion in a funding bill raises the stakes for both parties as the September 30 deadline approaches. Some Republicans are wary of tying the funding measure to a bill likely to face opposition, recalling the challenges faced by former Speaker McCarthy that led to his ouster. With a slim majority, Johnson's leadership will be tested as he navigates these legislative hurdles amidst growing pressure from conservatives.