Senate passes spending bill, averting government shutdown

The Senate passed a Republican stopgap spending bill to avoid a government shutdown, funding federal operations through September 30. The vote was 54 to 46, with some Democrats joining Republicans to advance the measure just before a midnight deadline. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer reversed his earlier opposition to the bill, citing concerns that a shutdown would empower President Trump. This decision sparked tensions within the Democratic Party, as some members wanted to resist Trump's agenda more forcefully. The spending bill maintains current funding levels but increases military spending by $6 billion and cuts the District of Columbia's budget by $1 billion. Critics argue it lacks specific funding directives, potentially allowing the Trump administration greater control over federal spending.