Get right out of town
The House of Representatives has returned to Washington for a brief, pre-Labor Day session, but the schedule points to an early exit as members prioritize campaigning ahead of the November midterms. The House is scheduled to be in session for less than a week, while the Senate does not return until September 14.
The primary legislative task is expected to be a vote on a short-term government funding bill, which the Senate already approved. This bipartisan measure funds the government through December 11, effectively averting the threat of a government shutdown before the election. The House is set to vote on this bill on Tuesday.
However, the session's main activity is expected to be a series of politically charged "gotcha" votes designed to put Democrats on the record. Republicans plan a resolution that forces Democrats to vote on supporting "socialism" or "democracy." A key component of this resolution is the SAVE America Act, a GOP priority requiring proof of citizenship for voting. Democrats, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York, have criticized the measure, calling it voter suppression legislation. Republicans intend to use any "no" votes in campaign ads against vulnerable Democrats this fall.
House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., confirmed the abbreviated timeline when asked if the House would remain in session. He replied, "Well, it’s on the schedule," referring to a plan established last December.
The House may also address ethics issues involving several Republican members. This includes a potential resolution to censure Rep. Chuck Edwards of North Carolina, who admitted to inappropriate conduct with female aides, and an effort to expel Rep. Cory Mills of Florida, who faces allegations of financial misconduct and assault. Both men have dropped their reelection bids or lost their primaries.
A more complex situation involves Rep. Max Miller of Ohio, who faces allegations of spousal and child abuse but is refusing to drop out of his reelection race. Johnson stated he supports Miller's reelection and believes the House should not act until the Ethics Committee completes its inquiry. However, Democrats and some Republicans may attempt to engineer a special resolution to punish Miller.
The overarching strategy for House Republicans, who hold a very narrow majority, is to recess quickly and allow members to return to their districts to campaign. There is even talk among some members of both parties of resigning early. The safest political tactic for the GOP may be to leave Washington until after the November election, making the current week's session a mere formality before the real campaign season begins.