Senate approves funding bill to avoid a shutdown before the election

The U.S. Senate voted 90-6 on Saturday to approve a short-term funding bill, averting a potential government shutdown before the election. The unusual action came nearly two months before the fiscal year ended on September 30. Senators acted swiftly to prevent another shutdown following two historic shutdowns earlier this year. Senate Majority Leader John Thune pushed for the funding to be resolved before lawmakers left for their August recess to focus on reelection campaigns.

The bill funds federal agencies at current levels through December 11, with some exceptions negotiated with the White House. Democrats secured language ensuring no funds would be transferred to the Border Patrol, while rejecting the administration's request for $1 billion to begin construction on a new "Trump-class" battleship. Senators also delayed a national ban on most intoxicating hemp products, a provision that drew criticism from some Republicans who argued it would allow these products to reach children. The House will now need to approve the measure before it can be signed by President Donald Trump.