Congress Faces Government Funding Deadline Amidst Political Tensions

The U.S. Congress, returning from the campaign trail, faces a government funding deadline by month's end. Republicans, led by Speaker Mike Johnson, propose a stopgap bill including proof of citizenship for voting, a proposal backed by Donald Trump. The Democratic-majority Senate shows little interest, while internal GOP debates continue.

The U.S. Congress returns from the campaign trail facing a critical government funding deadline by the end of the month. Election-year politics remain front and center as Republicans, led by House Speaker Mike Johnson, push for a stopgap funding bill that includes a requirement for proof of citizenship to vote in federal elections. The proposal has strong backing from former President Donald Trump.

House Republicans are divided on the measure, with No. 2 Republican Steve Scalise asserting its importance, while some members express skepticism about its viability. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has dismissed the proposal, emphasizing the need for bipartisan cooperation.

As the House Rules Committee prepares to consider the bill, the pressure is on lawmakers to prevent a government shutdown. Both parties face a looming January 1 deadline to address the nation's debt ceiling, adding to the urgency. Despite the contentious issues, few legislators seem willing to risk a government shutdown so close to the November elections.

(With inputs from agencies.)