The United States Senate has recently approved an interim spending measure designed to extend the legislative timeline by one week, offering Congress additional time to finalize the specifics of a second round of appropriations bills set for March.
With a final vote count of 77-13, the legislation now awaits the President’s signature before enactment. This move shifts the deadlines for government spending bills to March 8 and March 22, respectively. Congress is slated to reconvene next week to conclude work on the initial batch of six funding bills, due by March 8.
Earlier on Thursday, the House also passed a comparable bill championed by Republican Speaker Mike Johnson. The measure garnered significant bipartisan support in the lower chamber, passing with a vote tally of 320-99.
Among those opposing the bill were several Republican senators, including Marsha Blackburn (Tenn.), Mike Braun (Ind.), Ted Budd (N.C.), Mike Crapo (Idaho), Ted Cruz (Texas), Josh Hawley (Mo.), Ron Johnson (Wis.), Mike Lee (Utah), Roger Marshall (Kan.), Eric Schmitt (Mo.), Rick Scott (Fla.), Tommy Turberville (Ala.), and J.D. Vance (Ohio).
Prior to the vote, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer emphasized the significance of bipartisanship in achieving legislative progress, underscoring the importance of prioritizing the needs of the American people. He dismissed arguments advocating for prolonged deliberation, asserting that efficient governance can be achieved even amidst political divisions.
This development follows closely on the heels of the announcement by long-serving Republican Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, who disclosed his intention to step down from his leadership position in November.
