Key facts
- House Speaker Mike Johnson aims to unify Republicans and advance legislative priorities.
- President Donald Trump has urged Republicans to stop blocking procedural rules.
- Hard-line House Republicans are demanding election legislation be attached to other bills.
- A bipartisan housing bill passed by the House was halted by Trump over election concerns.
- The House faces a tight schedule with only about 28 session days before the midterm elections.
House Speaker Mike Johnson is attempting to rally his Republican conference and advance key legislative priorities this week, following a tumultuous period that saw the House adjourn early due to internal divisions. President Donald Trump has intervened via social media, urging lawmakers to cease blocking procedural rules that enable votes on legislation.
Trump's involvement comes as Republicans grapple with demands from hard-liners, led by Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, who are insisting that election integrity legislation, including proof of citizenship for voter registration, be attached to must-pass bills. This stance has created significant gridlock, prompting Johnson to send lawmakers home early last week and raising doubts about the House's ability to function productively before the fall elections.
Earlier in the week, the House had achieved a bipartisan victory by passing legislation aimed at lowering housing costs. However, Trump abruptly halted the bill signing ceremony, linking his approval to the passage of the election bill. Johnson stated he would send the housing bill to Trump on Monday, expressing hope for its signing.
Democrats have sharply criticized the Republican infighting, with Rep. Jim McGovern calling the situation "incredibly pathetic" and a display of "stunning incompetence." Some Republicans, like Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, have also voiced frustration with the blockade, deeming it "self-defeating." However, Rep. Andy Harris predicted further gridlock unless an agreement on the election legislation is reached.
The upcoming week will test Johnson's ability to manage his conference, particularly with a vote expected on the annual defense policy bill. Luna, a Trump ally, has indicated she may continue to withhold her vote unless her election demands are considered, despite Trump's call for unity. The House has a limited number of session days remaining before the midterm elections, and must also pass appropriations bills to fund the government beyond September 30.