About three hours before a midnight deadline, the Senate passed a bipartisan bill to keep the government funded

The Senate overwhelmingly passed a bipartisan bill just before a government shutdown was set to go into effect. The bill, which funds the government for 45 days, was signed into law by President Biden late Saturday night. President Biden expressed relief at the passage of the bill and highlighted its benefits for active-duty troops, travelers, women, children, and more.

No Democratic senators voted against the measure

All Democratic senators supported the bill, while the nine no votes came from Republicans. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer reassured the American people that there would be no government shutdown. The bill had already been passed by the House with more support from Democrats than Republicans.

Funding for Ukraine was not included

Notably absent from the bill was funding for Ukraine, which Democrats had sought but many Republicans opposed. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, in an effort to keep the government open, relied on Democratic help to pass the bill, even though it put his speakership at risk. The White House acknowledged the absence of Ukraine funding but emphasized the importance of continuing support for Ukraine.

Ukraine funding issue addressed by Senate and House lawmakers

Prior to the Senate vote, a Democrat senator had put a hold on the continuing resolution due to the Ukraine funding issue. The Biden administration had informed lawmakers that supplemental Ukraine aid would need to be addressed within the 45-day period. Republican House leaders expressed confidence in bipartisan support for this aid.

Senate Minority Leader McConnell urged his members to vote no

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell encouraged his members to vote no, allowing the House to pass its temporary funding measure. McCarthy’s initial plan of a Republican-only bill with rigid provisions was rejected, leading to the need for a bipartisan approach. McCarthy’s decision to rely on Democratic votes may risk his speakership, but he prioritized avoiding a government shutdown.

The consequences of a government shutdown

Without short-term funding, federal workers would have faced furloughs, military personnel would have worked without pay, and essential programs and services would have been disrupted. The potential impact would have been felt by federal workers, troops, and the American people who rely on government programs. The airports would have experienced delays and travel-related inconveniences.

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