Senate Advances Bipartisan FY2026 Spending Bills Amid Shutdown Threats

Senate Republicans and Democrats advanced a bipartisan package of fiscal 2026 spending bills, including funding for Veterans Affairs and military construction, despite ongoing partisan tensions and threats of a government shutdown. The Senate cleared an initial filibuster with a 90-8 vote, reflecting a rare moment of cooperation amid frustrations from Democrats over GOP-led rescissions that cut previously approved funding. Senate Majority Leader John Thune emphasized the desire for a bipartisan appropriations process and expressed hopes that if a shutdown occurs, Democrats would be blamed for it. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer acknowledged the bipartisan nature of the initial bill and the opportunity for amendments but warned that Republican rescissions undermine trust and complicate future cooperation. Internal GOP conflicts also surfaced, including accusations of sexism during closed-door meetings over spending levels, highlighting the complexity of budget negotiations. As the September 30 deadline approaches, lawmakers face pressure to finalize government funding or risk a shutdown, with both parties navigating internal divisions and strategic positioning.