Speaker Johnson cancels House votes ahead of midterm elections

Speaker of the House Mike Johnson has reversed his previous position by canceling House votes for the final two weeks of September. This decision leaves only four days of legislative business before the November 3 midterm elections.

Following a vote series on Friday morning, lawmakers will depart for a district work period during the Labor Day holiday and attend the Republican Midterm Convention in Dallas, Texas. The House is scheduled to return on September 14 for four days of business, after which members will depart for six weeks of campaigning.

The schedule change follows the House passing government funding through December 11, which was a primary legislative priority for the Speaker. Lawmakers are expected to return for a lame duck session on November 9.