The US Senate overwhelmingly advanced a stopgap spending bill on Monday to prevent a federal government shutdown ahead of the upcoming midterm elections. Lawmakers voted 89-4 to invoke cloture, clearing the first major procedural hurdle for the crucial continuing resolution.
The bipartisan measure will maintain federal funding at roughly current levels through December 11. Senate leaders hope to pass the legislation before lawmakers begin their scheduled monthlong August recess.
Strong bipartisan support reflects a shared desire to avoid disruptive budget battles. Both Republican and Democratic leaders on the Senate Appropriations Committee backed the initiative to ensure fiscal continuity.