House Republicans are standing up to President Donald Trump's calls for a government shutdown if a partisan immigration bill is not passed. GOP lawmakers, led by Speaker Mike Johnson and other key party members, have expressed their unwillingness to risk their House majority by shutting down the government just weeks before the upcoming Election Day. Despite private conversations with Trump, including a meeting on Thursday night, Johnson has made it clear to the former president that a shutdown would not be in their best interest.

Several Republican lawmakers have advised Trump against pursuing a government shutdown, emphasizing that such a move could be detrimental to his presidential campaign. Johnson and his GOP leadership team are expected to defy Trump's wishes and opt for a drama-free spending bill that postpones major policy debates until after the election. Lawmakers are aiming to finalize details over the weekend and proceed with a vote early next week.

The decision to avoid a government shutdown comes as Speaker Johnson defends nearly two dozen seats in blue-leaning territories. Concerns have been raised that a shutdown could jeopardize these seats and potentially lead to losses for the GOP. Johnson's approach to prioritize election security while sidestepping a confrontation with congressional Democrats aligns with the sentiments of some House Republicans, including close allies of President Trump like Rep. Byron Donalds and Rep. Jim Jordan.