At least one centrist House Democrat intends to back Speaker Mike Johnson's (R-La.) stopgap spending bill, despite opposition from his party leadership.
Why It Matters:
Rep. Jared Golden (D-Maine) is undermining Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries' (D-N.Y.) efforts to maintain caucus unity and block Republicans from securing the votes needed to advance the bill.
Johnson's proposal would extend government funding at current levels for six months and include a provision requiring proof of citizenship to vote in federal elections. Democrats are advocating for a shorter, three-month stopgap that excludes the controversial non-citizen voting provision, known as the SAVE Act.
What He's Saying:
Rep. Jared Golden, a moderate who co-chairs the centrist Blue Dog Coalition, told Axios he plans to vote for Johnson's bill, citing his previous support for the SAVE Act.
"I supported the SAVE Act, so there's no reason for me not to vote for it now," Golden said. He added that shutting down the government would be a "pretty bad idea," despite sharing concerns with his party about VA funding under a six-month bill.
Zoom Out:
Golden is the sole Democrat among the five who voted for the SAVE Act to publicly commit to supporting Johnson's measure. Rep. Mary Peltola (D-Alaska) is not participating in votes this week, while Reps. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-Wash.) and Don Davis (D-N.C.) have not commented. Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-Texas), a member of the House Appropriations Committee, has expressed reservations, noting his discomfort with long continuing resolutions.
Zoom In:
Golden mentioned that he hasn't received any direction from Democratic leadership, which is actively urging members to oppose the bill.
"It's not my style to be pressured into a position I don’t agree with," Golden said.
Yes, But:
Johnson is facing challenges in securing enough Republican votes to pass the bill, and Golden’s support alone may not be sufficient to bridge the gap.
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