Washington, D.C. | November 2025
In a critical step toward averting a federal government shutdown, the U.S. Senate advanced a bipartisan stopgap funding bill late Sunday night. The measure, which passed a key procedural vote with broad support, aims to extend government funding beyond the looming deadline and prevent disruptions to federal services.
The bill, negotiated by Senate leaders from both parties, proposes a short-term extension of current funding levels through early 2026. It includes provisions for disaster relief and military pay, but notably omits contentious policy riders that had previously stalled negotiations.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) hailed the vote as a “responsible path forward,” emphasizing the need to “keep the government open and working for the American people.” Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) also backed the measure, calling it a “pragmatic solution” to avoid unnecessary economic harm.
The bill now heads to the House of Representatives, where Speaker Mike Johnson faces pressure from hardline conservatives who oppose further temporary funding measures. With the current funding set to expire at midnight Friday, lawmakers are racing against the clock to finalize the legislation and send it to President Trump’s desk for signature.
If passed, the bill would mark the fourth short-term funding extension this fiscal year, underscoring the deep partisan divides that have plagued the federal budget process.
(Source – Reuters)
—Agencies
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