The United States has avoided a government shutdown after the Senate approved a Republican-led stopgap funding bill to keep federal operations running for the next six months. The measure passed 54-46, with two Democrats joining nearly all Republicans in support. President Donald Trump signed the bill into law on Saturday, securing temporary financial stability for the government.
The decisive moment came when some Senate Democrats, following intense debate, allowed the bill to advance past a procedural hurdle. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer initially supported moving the bill forward, acknowledging that while he opposed its provisions, a government shutdown would be a far worse outcome. However, he ultimately voted against its final passage.
The measure’s passage sparked division within the Democratic Party. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez condemned Schumer’s decision, calling it a “huge slap in the face” and accusing Senate Democrats who supported the bill of enabling reckless fiscal policies. She argued that the bill paves the way for deep cuts to social programs while protecting tax benefits for the wealthy.
Despite internal party tensions, Senate Republicans celebrated the bill’s approval. Senator Ted Cruz dismissed Democratic opposition as “political theater” and praised the measure for ensuring government stability. Trump also weighed in, commending Schumer’s procedural vote, stating that rejecting the bill would have been “a country destroyer.”
The legislation maintains much of the Biden administration’s federal funding levels but includes notable shifts. Military spending will increase by $6 billion, covering border security, veterans’ healthcare, and defense programs. However, non-defense funding faces a $13 billion reduction. Concerns arose over potential cuts to Washington, D.C.’s federal funding, but a separate bill preserved the city’s operating budget.
With the government funded for now, lawmakers brace for further battles over long-term fiscal policy.
