Senate aims to prevent government shutdown amid Democratic division

The Senate is working to prevent a partial government shutdown, facing a tight deadline. Democrats are divided over a spending bill that gives President Trump significant control over budget decisions. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer has indicated he will support the bill to avoid a shutdown. House Democrats have criticized the Senate's approach, warning against supporting Trump's agenda. They oppose the spending bill, which would fund the government through September while cutting non-defense spending and increasing defense spending. The Senate needs at least eight Democratic votes to pass the bill, which has been labeled a "blank check" for Trump. Democrats are concerned about the bill's lack of specific funding directives, allowing the administration more discretion over spending.