Funding bill seeks to prevent government shutdown next week

House Speaker Mike Johnson has introduced a short-term funding bill to prevent a government shutdown next week. The bill aims to keep the government running until the end of September and includes increased defense spending while cutting non-defense spending. The legislation has not been negotiated with Democrats, raising concerns about its passage. Democratic leaders have expressed strong opposition, warning it could lead to cuts in health care and veterans benefits. If the bill passes the House, it will face challenges in the Senate, where Republicans need Democratic support to overcome a filibuster. Both parties are seeking to avoid a shutdown, which would impact federal workers nationwide.