Senators urgently seek funding deal to prevent shutdown

U.S. senators are working to prevent a partial government shutdown as a deadline approaches. They are considering a short-term funding bill that would extend government operations through September, despite concerns over its provisions granting the Trump administration more spending discretion. The Senate's proposed bill would cut non-defense spending by $13 billion while increasing defense spending by $6 billion. This is the third short-term extension for the current fiscal year, as Congress has struggled to pass annual appropriations bills. Democrats are divided on the bill, with some viewing it as a "blank check" for Trump. They are particularly concerned about cuts to the District of Columbia's budget and reductions in IRS funding. A procedural vote is expected soon to determine if the bill can advance.