Senate Democrats oppose GOP spending plan, shutdown deadline approaches

Senate Democrats are opposing a Republican spending bill that has already passed the House, as a government shutdown deadline approaches. They are advocating for a 30-day stopgap funding measure, but its chances in the Republican-controlled Congress are slim. Senate Majority Leader John Thune emphasized the urgency of the situation, while Democrats worry about being blamed for a shutdown. They are united in their push for the stopgap bill, but Senate Republicans have shown little interest in supporting it. The House bill also includes controversial provisions affecting the District of Columbia's budget, prompting backlash from local leaders. As the deadline nears, the Senate is expected to vote on the Democrats' proposal before considering the broader Republican bill.