The House of Representatives on Wednesday rejected Speaker Mike Johnson’s proposed government funding plan, with 14 Republicans voting against it and two more opting to vote “present.” The bill failed with a vote of 202-222-2, with three Democrats breaking ranks to support the measure.

After the vote, Johnson expressed disappointment but remained optimistic about finding a solution to avoid a government shutdown. “We ran the play. It was the best play; it was the right one,” Johnson said. “Now we go back to the playbook. We’ll draw up another play, and we’ll come up with a solution.”

Johnson’s proposal aimed to fund the government for six months but included the controversial SAVE Act, a bill requiring proof of U.S. citizenship to vote, which is supported by GOP leadership and former President Donald Trump. Democrats dismissed the legislation, emphasizing that it is already illegal for non-citizens to vote in federal elections.

Johnson had pulled the bill from the floor last week, lacking sufficient support within his own party. Some Republicans opposed the measure over concerns it would increase the deficit, while defense hawks feared the six-month extension would impact the Department of Defense’s readiness.

Congress must pass a funding plan by October 1 to prevent a government shutdown. Trump has publicly urged Republicans to stand firm, stating on social media that if they don’t secure “absolute assurances on Election Security,” they should not support a continuing resolution on the budget.