Republicans advance funding bill despite Democratic resistance

Republicans are moving forward with a spending bill to prevent a government shutdown, set for a vote as soon as Tuesday. The bill aims to fund federal agencies through September but faces strong opposition from Democrats. Speaker Mike Johnson stated that the bill would cut $13 billion in non-defense spending while increasing defense spending by $6 billion. Democrats are concerned about the bill's lack of specific funding directives, which they argue gives the Trump administration excessive control over spending. While some House Republicans support the bill, dissent remains, particularly from Rep. Thomas Massie. Democrats have introduced an alternative funding bill that would last until April 11, in case the Republican measure fails.