House passes funding bill; Senate approval uncertain
The House passed a bill to fund federal agencies through September with a narrow 217-213 vote, aiming to prevent a government shutdown. The measure now heads to the Senate, where bipartisan support is necessary for approval. The bill proposes a $13 billion cut in non-defense spending and a $6 billion increase in defense spending. It grants the Trump administration more flexibility in spending decisions, raising concerns among Democrats about potential cuts to key programs. Democrats have introduced an alternative funding bill that would last until April 11. The situation remains tense, with both parties preparing to assign blame if the funding measure fails.