House passes funding bill; Senate's support uncertain

The House of Representatives passed a bill to fund federal agencies through September with a narrow 217-213 vote. This measure aims to prevent a government shutdown, but it requires bipartisan support in the Senate to proceed. The bill proposes a $13 billion cut in non-defense spending and a $6 billion increase in defense spending. It does not address major programs like Social Security and Medicare, which are funded automatically. Democrats have expressed concerns about the bill's flexibility for the Trump administration in spending decisions. They have introduced an alternative funding bill that would last until April 11, as a backup plan if the current measure fails.