Schumer optimistic about avoiding government shutdown as funding talks progress

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer expressed optimism on Sunday about avoiding a government shutdown at the end of the month. He noted that discussions with House Speaker Mike Johnson are progressing toward a potential agreement. Johnson is expected to present a short-term funding bill this week. This follows a setback last week when House Republicans rejected their own plan to prevent a shutdown. Tensions remain high as Congress has just over a week to pass a funding bill before the October 1 deadline. Schumer emphasized the need for cooperation from both parties to reach a resolution.