Senate Democrats weigh support for GOP funding bill

Senate Democrats are considering whether to support a House GOP funding bill to avoid a partial government shutdown on March 14. The bill requires 60 votes in the Senate, and GOP senators are urging Democrats to take responsibility for any shutdown. The House GOP's stopgap funding bill aims to reduce spending while increasing defense and veterans' healthcare funding. It has support from most Republicans, but some oppose it. House Democrats plan to vote against the bill, complicating its passage. Senate Democrats have not committed to a position on the bill, reflecting concerns about political fallout from a shutdown. At least eight Democratic votes are needed in the Senate to pass the funding bill and prevent a shutdown.