House GOP Proposes 3-Month Funding Plan Amid Election Concerns

House GOP leaders have proposed a three-month continuing resolution to fund the government, following the failure of Speaker Mike Johnson's initial six-month plan due to opposition from within the Republican Party. This resolution, which maintains current funding levels until December 20, is the result of bipartisan negotiations and aims to prevent a government shutdown ahead of the September 30 deadline. The proposal notably excludes a controversial voter ID measure endorsed by Donald Trump, which has been a point of contention among GOP lawmakers. Speaker Johnson has expressed concerns about the political ramifications of a government shutdown occurring less than 40 days before a significant election, labeling it as 'political malpractice.' The bill includes $231 million earmarked for the Secret Service, which has faced scrutiny following recent security incidents involving former President Trump. Johnson described the legislation as a 'bare-bones' approach, focusing only on essential funding extensions. To pass the bill, House Republicans will likely need support from Democrats, as many GOP members are expected to oppose it due to the absence of spending cuts and the shortened funding timeframe. The bill's passage will also require overcoming procedural hurdles, which typically align with party lines. This situation follows the rejection of Johnson's earlier funding proposal, complicating efforts to avoid a government shutdown. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has warned that Republicans could face public backlash if a shutdown occurs, attributing potential blame to what he calls 'Republican poison pills.' As the deadline approaches, the political landscape remains tense, with both parties navigating the implications of funding decisions on their electoral prospects.