The Senate is working to avoid a partial government shutdown with just hours to spare Friday. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer signalled he'd allow Democrats to side with Republicans and allow t

The Senate finds itself on Friday in a familiar position, working to avoid a partial government shutdown with just hours to spare as Democrats confront two painful options: allowing passage of a bill they believe gives President Donald Trump vast discretion on spending decisions or voting no and letting a funding lapse ensue.

The Republican-controlled House of Representatives earlier this week passed the measure, which largely leaves spending steady at about $6.75 trillion in the fiscal year that ends September 30. Democrats expressed anger over the bill,

The continuing resolution will need to be passed by the Senate and signed by Trump into law by Friday to avoid a shutdown.

Senate Democrats say they are prepared to vote against the Republicans’ bill if lawmakers do not strike a deal by Friday night.