(Patriot.Buzz) – Raising the alarm about a government shutdown that could threaten their chances at reelection, some House Republicans are feeling uneasy over Speaker Mike Johnson’s latest funding maneuver.
The concern stems from Johnson’s proposal to add the SAVE Act to a crucial funding bill that needs to pass by September 30 to keep federal agencies running.
Spearheaded by Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX), the SAVE Act demands citizenship proof for voter registration to prevent illegal aliens from voting.
This bill received support from five Democrats and was passed in the House back in July.
During a confidential GOP discussion, Rep. Larry Buschon (IN) highlighted that the SAVE Act was unnecessary.
He pointed out, “You realize the federal law already says that … you have to be a citizen to vote.”
He expressed his hope that this issue would not make the funding process even more complicated.
Rep. Nick LaLota (NY) questioned the plan’s feasibility, especially if the Senate returns a simplified funding bill without the SAVE Act, which could potentially cause a stalemate and a shutdown.
LaLota voiced concerns about the electoral consequences for himself and ten other vulnerable GOP incumbents.
Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA) also chimed in to question whether pushing the SAVE Act narrative was worth the risk of a shutdown.
Though Speaker Johnson did not provide detailed assurances, he did tell LaLota he would not pursue a funding fight he expected to lose.
The debate extends to other members like Rep. Matt Rosendale (MT), who criticized the focus on a short-term resolution rather than passing the standard 12 appropriations bills.
He argued on the social platform X, “If Schumer wanted, he could bring the SAVE Act up for a vote and pass it. But he won’t.”
“He wants illegals to vote in American elections. If he willingly rejected our bill then, he will reject it when tied to a CR. We should be focusing on passing ALL 12 appropriations bills!” Rosendale warned.
Meanwhile, a source revealed that including the SAVE Act might sway some Republicans who generally oppose the continuing resolution to support it this time.
Last year’s budget showdown saw Rep. Matt Gaetz (FL) successfully lead a charge against then-Speaker Kevin McCarthy, who was ousted in a close vote after Gaetz initiated a motion to vacate the chair.
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