Johnson cancels last day of votes before midterm elections despite AI panic

Published September 16, 2026 12:52pm ET | Updated September 16, 2026 12:52pm ET



House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) is sending the House home early, canceling the last legislative day before the November midterm elections.

Johnson framed the cancellation of votes as giving members an opportunity to go home to tout the Republicans’ legislative record in their districts. However, the shortening of the House’s voting schedule ensures the House will not take quick action on placing safety guardrails on artificial intelligence before Election Day. 

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