GOP divided on pursuing third reconciliation amid election tensions

Republicans are divided over whether to pursue a third party-line spending package, with some lawmakers expressing skepticism that such an ambitious effort can clear Congress in a high-stakes election year.

GOP leaders and top budget writers have already begun laying the groundwork for a third package, which they hope will include defense funding, fraud prevention initiatives and a slate of affordability-focused measures. President Trump added momentum to the effort Wednesday, urging Republicans in a Truth Social post to pass a $350 billion bill that would include the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE America) Act, legislation requiring proof of citizenship to register to vote in federal elections and an ID to cast a ballot.

But the prospect of passing another partisan package through the budget reconciliation process is giving some Republicans pause, including those facing competitive reelection races who worry that a politically difficult vote could alienate swing voters back home. Others simply don’t believe there’s enough time to get another massive bill across the finish line.

Reconciliation is a special process that allows the majority party to bypass the filibuster in the Senate, but it is a time-consuming and arduous process that tests party unity. Republicans have passed two reconciliation bills so far during Trump’s second term.

During a hearing Tuesday about next year’s budget for the Air Force, Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) said he thinks “it’s safe to conclude there will not be another reconciliation bill.”

Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Susan Collins (R-Maine) said in response, “I agree with that assessment.” Collins is up for reelection against Democrat Graham Platner in one of this year’s critical Senate races.

And asked about a third bill,........

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