Senate Moves Ahead on Bill to Avert a Shutdown
Senators in both parties are eager to avoid another spending skirmish before the midterm elections, but the measure still must pass the House.
Senate Republicans view President Donald Trump as a growing political liability ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, according to a report by The Hill. Concerns over Trump's declining approval ratings and his impact on congressional races are widespread within the Senate GOP conference. Even Republican incumbents in traditionally safe states like Kansas and Nebraska are now seen as potentially vulnerable.
Trump's refusal to abandon a proposed $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund has further fueled Republican criticism, as they fear it would strengthen Democratic accusations of political favoritism. North Carolina Republican Sen. Thom Tillis called the proposal "horrible policy" and "horrible politics," stating that it would be difficult to explain to voters.
The Justice Department temporarily rescinded the fund after Tillis and Texas Sen. John Cornyn threatened to block Attorney General Todd Blanche's confirmation. Republican lawmakers also worry about Trump's demand that the Senate pass the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE America) Act, which they believe has little chance of becoming law and could depress Republican turnout if it fails.
Trump's ongoing criticism of Senate Majority Leader John Thune has also frustrated Republican senators, with White House spokesperson Olivia Wales defending Trump's leadership and achievements. Recent polling showing Republican candidates trailing Democratic challengers in several states has intensified concerns among Senate Republicans about Trump's influence on the party's re-election prospects.
Written by urgent.news from Live Mint's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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