Mike Johnson Pushes Plan to Avoid Shutdown

House Speaker Mike Johnson's efforts to pass a stopgap funding bill, which includes the controversial SAVE Act requiring proof of citizenship for voter registration, have been met with significant resistance from both conservatives and Democrats. The House voted on the legislation Wednesday, but Johnson faced a setback as 14 Republicans opposed it, leading to a 220-202 defeat. Critics, including some GOP members, called Johnson's strategy perplexing, as they question the viability of the bill after its previous withdrawal due to lack of support. The looming government shutdown threatens to occur on October 1 if a new budget is not passed, with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer urging for bipartisan cooperation. Amidst the turmoil, Johnson's leadership is under scrutiny, particularly regarding his lack of a backup plan if the current proposal fails. The ongoing negotiations reflect deep divides within the party and skepticism about the bill's necessity, given that non-citizen voting is already illegal.