The U.S. Senate has passed a bill to fund the federal government until September 30, 2025, avoiding a potential shutdown.
The legislation was approved with a 54-46 vote, after the Senate rejected four proposed amendments.
Debates grew intense as Democrats voiced strong opposition to the $7 billion in spending cuts included in the bill. However, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer ultimately decided to support it.
“I dislike the bill but believe that a shutdown would be a worse outcome,” Schumer stated.
His decision surprised many within the Democratic Party, highlighting internal disagreements on how to challenge President Donald Trump while in the minority. The Republican-controlled House of Representatives had already approved the bill on March 12, with a narrow 217-213 vote.
