Senate passes spending bill, faces Democratic backlash

The US Senate passed a stopgap spending bill on Friday, preventing a partial government shutdown. Senate Democrats, led by Chuck Schumer, agreed to the bill despite internal dissent over its provisions, particularly regarding cuts to federal spending. The Senate voted 54-46 to approve the measure, which maintains spending at about $6.75 trillion for the fiscal year ending September 30. The bill includes a $7 billion cut, which has drawn criticism from Democrats. The Republican-controlled House had already passed the bill earlier in the week. Tensions remain high as President Trump continues efforts to reduce federal workforce spending amid ongoing trade conflicts.