House Democratic leader rejected a proposal from Speaker Mike Johnson that would tie government funding for six months to a measure requiring proof of citizenship when registering to vote. The response sets the stage for a spending battle as lawmakers aim to reach consensus on a short-term spending bill to avert a partial government shutdown at the start of the new fiscal year on Oct. 1.
The proposal by Johnson aims to defer final decisions on full-year spending to the next Congress, a move supported by some Republicans who believe it will be more favorable for their funding and policy priorities. However, House Democrats argue that the appropriations process should be completed in the current Congress without partisan policy changes.
