President Donald Trump and Senate Democrats reached a last-minute agreement to fund the federal government as a partial shutdown deadline approached Friday night. The deal is intended to keep most government operations running, though uncertainty remains over whether Congress can act in time to avoid a brief lapse in funding.
Momentum slowed late Thursday when Senate leadership sent lawmakers home without scheduling a vote. The full text of the agreement had not yet been released, and senators said final action was likely to slip to Friday. Senate Majority Leader John Thune expressed cautious optimism, saying negotiations were ongoing and that leaders hoped to finalize the package soon.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer placed blame on Republicans for the delay, arguing that internal disagreements were holding up progress. Thune acknowledged that unresolved issues remain on both sides, including objections from Sen. Lindsey Graham, who has blocked expedited consideration over concerns tied to a provision affecting congressional notification rules.
President Trump publicly urged swift bipartisan action, calling on both parties to support the funding agreement and prevent disruptions to government services. Despite his backing, the procedural hurdles mean a short shutdown could still begin early Saturday if votes are delayed.
Even if the Senate approves the deal, timing challenges remain in the House. The chamber is currently in recess and not scheduled to return until Monday, making a brief partial shutdown increasingly likely. House leaders are discussing options, but aides have signaled that next week remains the earliest realistic window for final passage.
If enacted, the agreement would fully fund more than 95 percent of federal agencies for the fiscal year, leaving only the Department of Homeland Security unresolved. Agencies already covered include Agriculture, Veterans Affairs, Justice, Energy, Commerce, and several science and regulatory bodies. Without final approval, however, any unfunded agencies would begin limited shutdown procedures until Congress completes its work.