GOP defections prompt Speaker Mike Johnson to pull government funding bill

Speaker Mike Johnson had to postpone a government funding vote after facing opposition from Republicans over tying the funding bill to the SAVE Act, which aims to overhaul voting laws. Johnson’s strategy to avert a government shutdown is in jeopardy as he works to persuade GOP defectors to support the bill. Senate Democrats and some Republicans are pushing for a “clean” funding bill until December. With a narrow majority, House Republicans can only afford four GOP defections, which could potentially delay the passing of the funding bill. Several Republicans have publicly stated they will vote against the bill, citing concerns about fiscal irresponsibility and freezing Pentagon funding. Despite the pressure from former President Donald Trump to tie government funding to the SAVE Act, both parties are reluctant to shut down the government with the November elections approaching. Top Democrat Rosa DeLauro has called on Republicans to abandon their funding strategy and negotiate a bill that can earn bipartisan support. The future of the funding bill remains uncertain as lawmakers work to find a solution that avoids a government shutdown and meets the needs of the American people.

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