Senate Democrats weigh support for House funding bill

Senate Democrats are discussing their response after the House passed a stopgap funding measure to avoid a government shutdown. The bill, which increases defense spending and cuts non-defense spending, now requires support from Democrats to pass in the Senate. House Republicans approved the measure with minimal Democratic backing. Senate Republicans need at least eight Democratic votes to reach the 60-vote threshold for passage. Some Democrats express concerns about the bill's implications but are also wary of a government shutdown. Senate Democrats prefer a shorter-term funding solution to allow more time for budget discussions. However, Senate Majority Leader John Thune supports the House measure as the best option to keep the government running.