House GOP passes key vote on spending bill

A Republican short-term spending bill to prevent a government shutdown has passed a key procedural vote in the House, with a final vote scheduled for later today. The measure, which freezes spending until September 30, passed 216 to 214. House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed confidence in securing enough Republican votes for final passage, despite some dissent within the party. Democrats have stated they will not support the bill, which raises defense spending while cutting nondefense spending. Former President Donald Trump has been actively encouraging Republican support for the bill, influencing hard-line conservatives who typically oppose such measures. Democratic leaders are uniting against the bill, with no indications of support from swing-district members.