Senate passes spending bill, avoiding government shutdown

The Senate passed a six-month spending bill just hours before a government shutdown, with a vote of 54-46. This bill, which faced strong Democratic opposition, will now go to President Trump for approval. Democrats expressed frustration over the lack of input in the bill, which they believe undermines key priorities. However, many chose to support the bill to avoid a government shutdown, despite concerns it gives Trump significant control over spending. The legislation trims non-defense spending by $13 billion while increasing defense spending by $6 billion. It is the third short-term funding extension for the current fiscal year, which is nearly half over.