Congress Passes Temporary Spending Bill

On Wednesday, Congress passed a temporary spending bill to avoid a government shutdown and keep the government open until Dec. 20.

Key Details: The Senate voted 78-18 after the House passed it in a 341-82 vote. The only opposition came from Republicans. The bill now heads to President Joe Biden, who plans to sign it before the Tuesday shutdown deadline. Congress adjourns this week and doesn't return until after the election.

Key Quotes: Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) said, "This bipartisanship is a good outcome for America," and that he hopes it fuels "constructive, bipartisan work when we return in the fall." House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) depicted the measure as doing "only what's absolutely necessary," a statement meant for Republicans who were concerned about spending levels.

For Context: The original proposal contained the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act (SAVE) but was unable to pass. Johnson unveiled the new bill, which omits SAVE, on Sunday.

How the Media Covered it: Fox News (Right bias) noted that most Republicans decided not to continue the fight to include SAVE and risk a government shutdown. ABC News (Lean Left bias) noted that both House and Senate members are anxious to return to their districts to campaign, and pointed out the blame-trading between Republicans and Democrats over the need for another temporary spending bill.