Congress passes short-term government funding extension until after election

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Congress passed a short-term funding extension on Wednesday, temporarily avoiding a government shutdown as attention shifts to the upcoming November election. Both chambers passed the continuing resolution, extending current spending levels until December 20, despite opposition from some conservatives and former President Donald Trump, who had pushed for election security measures to be included.

In the House, the extension was supported by all Democrats, with 82 Republicans opposing it. The Senate followed with a 78-18 vote. The bill now heads to President Joe Biden, who is expected to sign it before the October 1 deadline.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer praised the bipartisanship, expressing hope that it will continue when lawmakers return after the election. The measure gives Congress more time to negotiate a budget for the 2025 fiscal year, with a funding fight likely in December after voters decide the control of Congress.

The bill does not allocate new spending for most government agencies, but it includes $230 million for the Secret Service in response to two assassination attempts on former President Trump.

The real budget negotiations are expected to happen in December, with Republicans aiming to reduce spending below the caps set during earlier debt limit negotiations with President Biden. GOP infighting over spending deals and appropriations could complicate the talks when Congress reconvenes.