Fresh Deadline Drama: Senate Poised to Avert Shutdown

Funding Bill on the Brink of Passage

The Senate is set for a pivotal test vote this afternoon on the House-passed government funding bill, with a potential shutdown looming tonight. A major breakthrough occurred last night as Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., announced his support for the measure, significantly boosting its chances of passage. This concession signals a potential end to the high-stakes political standoff, ensuring continued government operations.

The Senate finds itself in a familiar position, working to avoid a partial government shutdown with just hours to spare Friday. Democrats are confronting two painful options: allowing passage of a bill they believe gives President Donald Trump vast discretion on spending decisions or voting no and letting a funding lapse ensue.

Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer gave members of his caucus days to vent their frustration about the options before them, but late Thursday made clear he will not allow a government shutdown. His move gives Democrats room to side with Republicans and allow the continuing resolution, often described as a CR, to come up for a vote.

As a shutdown deadline looms, Senate Democrats are mounting a last-ditch protest over a Republican-led spending bill that already passed the House which they argue gives President Donald Trump too much discretion on spending decisions.

The Senate finds itself in a familiar position, working to avoid a partial government shutdown with just hours to spare Friday. Democrats are confronting two painful options: allowing passage of a bill they believe gives President Donald Trump vast discretion on spending decisions or voting no and letting a funding lapse ensue.

Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer gave members of his caucus days to vent their frustration about the options before them, but late Thursday made clear he will not allow a government shutdown. His move gives Democrats room to side with Republicans and allow the continuing resolution, often described as a CR, to come up for a vote.

Judge blocks mass firings of federal workers

Two federal judges handed down orders on Thursday requiring Trump’s administration to rehire thousands, if not tens of thousands, of probationary workers let go in mass firings across multiple agencies. The Trump administration has already appealed the first ruling.

Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear and Republican Sens. Mitch McConnell and Rand Paul came together to lament brewing trade wars that could stagger the bourbon industry.