The US House of Representatives passes a funding bill to avert a government shutdown. The bill keeps federal agencies running through mid-March. Democrats join Republicans to advance the bill, despite 34 Republican backbenchers voting against it.
The House sends a package to the Senate, which must act before midnight to avoid a shutdown. If the Senate fails to pass the bill, federal agencies will begin shutting down, affecting up to 875,000 workers.
Congress struggles to set government budgets, with both chambers closely divided between Republicans and Democrats. The latest drama intensifies after President-elect Trump and tech billionaire Musk pressure Republicans to renege on a funding bill.
The House-passed bill includes $110 billion in disaster aid and financial relief for farmers. It avoids a two-year suspension of the country’s self-imposed borrowing limit demanded by Trump.
Musk’s influence over Republicans sparks anger among Democrats, who question how an unelected citizen can wield so much power. Some Republicans also express frustration with Musk’s interference.
The Senate’s expected approval could take days, unless members agree unanimously to waive normal procedure. Trump is willing to see a shutdown if he doesn’t get his way.
