Senate passes funding bill, avoiding government shutdown
The Senate passed a short-term funding bill on Friday, avoiding a government shutdown just hours before the deadline. This decision came after Senate Democrats, led by Chuck Schumer, voted with Republicans, reversing their earlier opposition. Initially, Democrats aimed to block the GOP-led bill, which grants President Trump more spending authority. However, internal conflicts among Democrats led to Schumer's change of heart, resulting in a 54-46 vote in favor of the funding measure. The approved bill increases defense spending by $6 billion while cutting domestic spending by $13 billion. It funds the government through September 30, 2025, and allows Trump greater control over budget allocations without congressional approval.