Senate advances spending bill to prevent government shutdown

The Senate voted to advance a House-passed stopgap spending bill, aiming to prevent a government shutdown. The bill maintains spending levels from fiscal year 2024 until October 1. A shutdown will occur if no bill is passed by midnight. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer switched his stance to support the bill, despite opposition from some Democrats. Tensions within the party were evident, with disagreements over the best approach to avoid a shutdown. The House Democratic leaders and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi criticized the bill, advocating for a shorter funding extension. The situation reflects significant divisions among Democrats as the deadline approaches.