Impending Government Shutdown and the Role of Republicans

Shutdown Threat Looms

Another potential government shutdown is on the horizon, with the deadline set for October 1st. Republicans are attempting to link a six-month funding stopgap, also known as a Continuing Resolution (CR), to the SAVE Act. This act would necessitate proof of citizenship for voter registration. However, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) removed a funding bill from the House floor mere hours before a vote was due. This move was in response to an increasing number of Republicans expressing their intention to reject the measure, which includes the SAVE Act.

Democrats' and Trump's Positions

Democrats, on the other hand, are advocating for a "clean" funding bill that would keep the government functioning until December, just after the elections, without the inclusion of the SAVE Act. Former President Donald Trump has urged Johnson and his Republican colleagues to stand firm and risk a government shutdown if they cannot secure the SAVE Act.

Johnson's Stance

Before removing the funding bill from the floor, Johnson stated his determination to push through both the SAVE Act and the CR. He also expressed his belief that almost 90% of Americans support this principle. However, after pulling the bill, he acknowledged the need for consensus-building in Congress, especially given the small majorities. He expressed confidence that they would reach a consensus through "thoughtful conversations" within the Republican conference.

Republican Opposition

Challenging Democrats and some Republicans over the SAVE Act would entail addressing allegations of election fraud, a topic Republicans have been hesitant to confront since the 2020 US election. Furthermore, at least seven Republicans have declared they would vote against a CR under any circumstances, as it merely postpones the problem.

Mathematical Challenges

Johnson faces a difficult numerical challenge. Due to their slim majority, House Republicans can only afford four GOP defections if all lawmakers vote. At least seven other Republicans have publicly stated they will vote against a stopgap measure, known as a continuing resolution or "CR." Many others have indicated they might join them.

Opposition to CR

Republicans opposing a CR include Reps. Cory Mills of Florida, Jim Banks of Indiana, Matt Rosendale of Montana, Andy Biggs of Arizona, and Tim Burchett of Tennessee. According to these representatives, the CR would weaken the nation's defense capabilities and military readiness, hinder innovation, and delay modernization. They argue that such a resolution is fiscally irresponsible and pushes the country closer to a fiscal cliff.

Support for SAVE Act

Despite their opposition to the CR, these representatives support the SAVE Act. For instance, Mills has stated that he firmly opposes bankrupting the nation but supports election integrity.

The Upcoming Charade

Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) has expressed his refusal to participate in what he sees as a charade that will unfold over the next two weeks. He argues that the six-month continuing resolution with the SAVE Act attached is an insult to Americans' intelligence and predicts that the "shiny object" attached to the CR will be dropped before passage.

Bottom Line

This impending government shutdown presents a complex political landscape, with Republicans caught between supporting fiscal responsibility and ensuring election integrity. As the deadline approaches, it remains to be seen how these political dynamics will play out and what impact they will have on the government's ability to function effectively. What are your thoughts on this issue? Feel free to share this article with your friends and engage in a discussion. Also, don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6 pm.