GOP rebellion puts Mike Johnson's spending plan on notice

SUMMARY

House Speaker Mike Johnson is facing internal opposition to his government funding plan, with at least five GOP lawmakers opposing his six-month continuing resolution (CR) ahead of the October 1 deadline. The rebellion, led by figures like Rep. Cory Mills (R-Fla.), puts Johnson's strategy in jeopardy as he works to prevent a government shutdown. Key points of contention include the SAVE Act, a proposal to secure elections, that would require proof of citizenship to register to vote. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has criticized the act as a "poison pill," violating prior spending agreements. Democrats are resisting Johnson's plan to extend funding into March 2025, when Republicans could control the Senate. If the SAVE Act fails, Johnson may have an easier path negotiating with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer on funding timelines. However, a shutdown remains possible if GOP hardliners prevail and former President Trump weighs in on the issue.