Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer initiated a procedural step on Thursday to pave the way for a potential vote next week on a government funding extension as the deadline for a shutdown approaches at the end of the month. The House and Senate are yet to determine which chamber will act first on the funding issue.
Following the House's failure to pass a six-month GOP funding plan that included a controversial provision targeting non-citizen voting, House Speaker Mike Johnson is expected to present an alternative plan. Senate GOP Whip John Thune anticipates that the House will act early next week, allowing the Senate to follow suit.
Senator Schumer criticized Speaker Johnson's handling of the situation, expressing disappointment in the failed GOP plan. Schumer refrained from disclosing details of potential negotiations or additional funding requests for natural disasters and the Secret Service.
Meanwhile, GOP presidential nominee Donald Trump has urged Republicans to consider a government shutdown if the voting measure known as the SAVE Act is not approved. However, many Democrats are advocating for a funding extension into December without the inclusion of the SAVE Act, which is unlikely to gain Senate approval.
Schumer emphasized the Senate's readiness to intervene if the House fails to present a viable solution to keep the government operational. He emphasized the importance of avoiding a shutdown and providing flexibility to prevent such an outcome.
Speaker Johnson acknowledged the setback in the House and pledged to devise a new strategy to address the funding issue. Despite pressure from Trump and internal party dynamics, Johnson remains committed to finding a resolution to prevent a government shutdown.
In response to Trump's call for a shutdown if the SAVE Act is not passed, Schumer highlighted the potential repercussions for Republicans and emphasized the need to avert a shutdown. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin echoed Schumer's sentiments, expressing frustration over the recurring threat of shutdowns and calling for a more effective legislative process.
