House Rejects Johnson's Funding Bill

The House of Representatives rejected a six-month stopgap funding bill proposed by Speaker Mike Johnson, with a vote outcome of 202 to 220, as 14 Republicans joined Democrats in opposition. The bill included the controversial SAVE Act, which would require proof of citizenship for federal election registration, but faced significant backlash from conservatives and defense hawks who criticized its lack of spending cuts and potential impact on defense budgets. Johnson expressed disappointment but indicated he would seek alternative solutions to avoid a government shutdown by the September 30 deadline. Critics within the GOP labeled the bill as 'insincere' and a continuation of excessive spending, while Johnson attributed the situation to the Democrat-led Senate's inaction on appropriations. The failure leaves Johnson with uncertain avenues for averting a shutdown and risks disappointing key party leaders, including former President Trump. The ongoing tensions within the Republican Party highlight deep divisions over fiscal responsibility and election security policy.