House Speaker Mike Johnson has stated that the House of Representatives will remain in session until a series of key legislative items are brought to a vote, including a stopgap funding measure, a budget framework, and the annual defense policy bill. Johnson responded with a firm "I will not" when asked if the House would adjourn early if a critical procedural vote on Tuesday failed.
The legislative agenda for the week includes bringing to the floor a Republican-authored stock trading ban, a temporary spending bill to fund the government through the midterm elections, and the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for a second consideration. GOP leaders are also working to pass a $95 billion budget framework that includes $73 billion for defense and intelligence.
This push faces challenges from conservative House members who have expressed concerns about spending levels and the lack of offsets in the proposed budget. Representative Eric Burlison, R-Mo., cited the absence of spending offsets and language defunding Planned Parenthood as reasons for potential opposition to the budget framework. Former President Donald Trump, however, urged Republicans to support the budget plan, emphasizing its inclusion of election integrity measures.
House conservatives have previously voted against party-line procedural votes, citing various grievances. Burlison has also voiced concerns about ensuring the passage of the SAVE America Act, noting the complexities of Senate budget reconciliation rules. He indicated openness to discussing ways to solidify the SAVE Act language and address abortion by mail.
Senator Rick Scott, R-Fla., echoed the sentiment that Congress should remain in session until all legislative work is completed, particularly the short-term funding package and the SAVE America Act. He noted that the House and Senate would not be in session concurrently again until September 14 if the current schedule holds, calling it an unacceptable delay.
Johnson's commitment to keeping the House in session underscores the packed legislative schedule and the tight margins within the Republican conference, where only a few defections can derail procedural votes. The House Rules Committee is expected to report out a rule on Monday evening to set up Tuesday's procedural vote on these legislative items. A failure to pass these measures could lead to an extended legislative session before the August recess.