GOP’s Plan To Secure Voting Rights
House Republicans are exploring the idea of attaching a proposal to require proof of citizenship for voter registration to a must-pass continuing resolution (CR) aimed at preventing a government shutdown, according to Politico.
With a critical funding deadline of October 1 looming, Congress faces the urgent task of passing a budget to avert a shutdown. However, there is significant disagreement between Democrats and Republicans over long-term spending plans. Within the GOP, there is further discord on whether to pass another CR or seek a more permanent solution.
Several Republican lawmakers have indicated that discussions are underway about incorporating a proposal for proof of citizenship into the CR. Earlier this year, the House passed the SAVE Act, a measure requiring citizenship verification for voter registration, with unanimous support from Republicans and backing from five Democrats. However, the bill has stalled in the Senate.
Politico reports that conservative leaders are looking to revive the SAVE Act by attaching it to essential legislation. Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX), a prominent member of the House Freedom Caucus, has expressed support for this approach, stating, “I believe the vast majority of Republicans, along with the leadership, want to see a CR that includes the SAVE Act as soon as we return.”
However, there is some trepidation within the party. Some Republicans worry that the Senate, controlled by Democrats, might reject a CR that includes such a provision, forcing Republicans to remove it. An anonymous GOP lawmaker expressed concern, suggesting that the party is divided between those who understand the realities of Washington politics and those who are more idealistic. The lawmaker noted, “It’s clear that within our party, there’s a split between those who grasp the practicalities of power and those who are driven by unrealistic expectations.”
As the deadline approaches, Republicans face the challenge of balancing their policy goals with the practicalities of securing necessary funding to keep the government operational.
