Critical Vote Looms for U.S. House on Stopgap Funding Bill

The U.S. House of Representatives is set to vote on a six-month stopgap funding bill proposed by Republican Speaker Mike Johnson. With less than three weeks before a potential government shutdown, this bill includes a controversial citizenship verification provision. The bill faces opposition from both parties and a presidential veto threat.

The U.S. House of Representatives is set to vote on a six-month stopgap funding bill spearheaded by Republican Speaker Mike Johnson, with heavy Democratic opposition looming just weeks before a potential government shutdown.

House Republicans have controversially included a provision requiring proof of citizenship to register to vote, a move decried by Democrats as an attempt to provoke stances on non-citizen voting. Republican presidential hopeful Donald Trump has pressured Republicans to advance the measure before the Nov. 5 election, despite his continued false claims of 2020 election fraud.

As the fiscal year closes on Sept. 30, essential federal programs risk suspension unless an extension is passed. This urgency is underscored by impending reelection campaigns. The bill's success is uncertain in the narrowly Republican-controlled chamber, with some members opposing it. Johnson, however, remains resolute.

Divisions are apparent, with two Republicans siding with Democrats against advancing the bill. It also faces significant Senate opposition, particularly on the citizenship requirement, seen as undermining election confidence. President Joe Biden has indicated he would veto the bill, citing the contentious voting provision and advocating for a shorter funding period and disaster relief support.

The urgency extends to a critical Jan. 1 deadline to address the nation's debt ceiling, beyond which lies the risk of defaulting on over $35 trillion in federal debt.

(With inputs from agencies.)