Congress Faces Deadline to Prevent Government Shutdown

As the deadline to avert a government shutdown approaches, House Republicans are rallying around a continuing resolution (CR) to fund the government through September 30, 2025, with significant backing from President Donald Trump. The proposed bill maintains current spending levels, includes a $500 million increase for the Women, Infants and Children nutrition program, and aims to reduce non-defense spending by $13 billion while allocating $6 billion for defense. However, it faces hurdles in the Senate, where Democrats demand assurances on spending transparency and funding levels before agreeing to support the measure. Despite past divisions within the Republican Party, Trump's support has unified hardliners to back the funding plan, though some Democrats remain skeptical about potential cuts and transparency. The urgency to pass the bill is compounded by the risk of a partial government shutdown that would impact Defense Department and Veterans Affairs services. Lawmakers are racing against time to ensure that essential services continue without interruption, with a vote expected soon in the House.