Congress Rallies to Avert Government Shutdown Amid Trump's Federal Overhaul

The U.S. Congress aims to prevent a government shutdown as President Trump advances plans to cut federal agencies. The House Republican majority supports a funding bill to maintain current levels until the fiscal year's end. While the Senate requires bipartisan support, Trump's influence reshapes legislative dynamics.

With Washington on edge over President Donald Trump's ambitious downsizing of federal agencies, the Republican-controlled U.S. Congress is poised to advance a critical funding bill to prevent an impending government shutdown this week.

The bill, supported by a narrow House Republican majority often at odds with Speaker Mike Johnson, would keep the government funded through September 30, drawing on current financial levels to ensure continuity. This move aligns with Trump's agenda, aiming for substantial tax cuts and increased expenditures on immigration and military domains.

In the Senate, the challenge lies in securing the necessary bipartisan backing to clear the bill, demanding at least seven Democratic votes due to the chamber's 60-vote filibuster rule. As political brinkmanship continues to unsettle U.S. credit ratings, the bill stands as a pivotal measure in stabilizing government operations amid potential debt ceiling discussions later this year.

(With inputs from agencies.)