On March 14, 2025, the U.S. Senate approved a stopgap spending bill, effectively preventing a partial government shutdown. The bill, which extends federal funding through the end of September, was subsequently signed into law by President Donald Trump on March 15.
The Senate passed the bill with a 54-46 vote, with ten Democrats joining Republicans in support. The legislation maintains the current spending level of $6.75 trillion, incorporating $7 billion in cuts.
However, the bill’s passage has intensified divisions within the Democratic Party. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez criticized Senate Democrats, including Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, for supporting the Republican-crafted bill. They argue that it undermines essential social services and grants excessive power to President Trump and his adviser, Elon Musk.
In defense, Senator Schumer contended that endorsing the bill was a necessary compromise to avert a more detrimental government shutdown.
The internal party dispute has also reignited debates over the Senate filibuster, highlighting ongoing ideological rifts among Democrats.
