Senate Democrats reject funding extension, risking government shutdown

Senate Democrats, led by Chuck Schumer, have rejected a stopgap funding bill that would extend government funding through September 30. This decision increases the likelihood of a government shutdown by the weekend. Democrats are pushing for a clean extension until April 11 to allow time for negotiations on individual spending bills. They oppose the Republican-drafted bill, which they believe gives too much power to the Trump administration. With funding set to expire early Saturday, the situation remains tense. House Democrats are urging Senate leaders to stand firm against the funding measure, which they view as a power grab.