Unless Congress can pass a bill to fund the federal government (which Donald Trump then signs) before midnight on Friday, the government will be forced to shut down at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time on Saturday.

The Senate is working to avoid a partial government shutdown with just hours to spare Friday. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer signalled he'd allow Democrats to side with Republicans and allow t

The Senate finds itself on Friday in a familiar position, working to avoid a partial government shutdown with just hours to spare as Democrats confront two painful options: allowing passage of a bill they believe gives President Donald Trump vast discretion on spending decisions or voting no and letting a funding lapse ensue.