Congress seeks funding extension to prevent government shutdown

The Republican-controlled Congress is working to prevent a government shutdown by a Friday deadline. Speaker Mike Johnson plans a House vote on a six-month funding extension, relying solely on Republican support. Democrats oppose the measure, citing exclusion from negotiations and concerns over spending cuts. The proposed bill includes increased military funding and reduced non-defense spending, which Democrats argue could harm essential programs. They demand assurances on how funds will be allocated, criticizing the bill for giving the Trump administration more control over spending decisions. With a slim Republican majority in the House, Johnson can only afford one defection. No Democrats have indicated support for the bill, and Senate Republicans will need at least seven Democratic votes to pass it.