BREAKING / Senate Rejects Procedural Vote on Funding Bill Ahead of Shutdown Deadline

The U.S. Senate voted Thursday to block a procedural measure that would have kept the federal government funded, increasing the likelihood of a shutdown at midnight Friday if lawmakers do not reach a new agreement. The vote failed 46–54, short of the number required to advance the bill.

Democratic senators opposed the measure, citing concerns over provisions related to funding for the Department of Homeland Security. Party leaders said the DHS language was unacceptable and argued that further negotiations are necessary before any stopgap funding plan can move forward.

The vote did not split strictly along party lines. Several Republicans also voted against the measure, raising objections to overall spending levels and criticizing the proposal as a short-term solution that failed to address broader budget concerns.

Without a funding extension, federal agencies will begin shutting down nonessential operations starting at midnight Friday. A shutdown could affect federal employee pay, national parks, regulatory functions, and a range of government services across the country.

Senate leaders from both parties said discussions would continue, but as of Thursday evening no clear compromise had been announced. It remains unclear when another vote could occur as the funding deadline rapidly approaches.

If Congress fails to act in time, the lapse in funding would result in another government shutdown, highlighting ongoing disagreements over federal spending and immigration-related funding priorities. Lawmakers from both parties have begun assigning blame as pressure builds to reach a resolution.