A government shutdown may be averted as the House of Representatives has passed a short-term spending bill to extend the deadline beyond midnight tomorrow. However, the Senate still needs to pass their legislation before confirming the shutdown's avoidance. Speaker Mike Johnson achieved two positive outcomes - securing more time in the House and garnering majority Republican support for the short-term measure, boosting his position. The Senate's timeline remains uncertain as any senator can potentially delay the process. Senator Ted Cruz has expressed the desire for an amendment vote on the House-passed immigration bill, H.R. 2, while Senator Rand Paul also seeks an amendment. Republican whip John Thune is optimistic about reaching an agreement swiftly, but final consensus is pending. The Senate's pace is crucial in ensuring the protection of the shutdown deadline and the successful passage of the bill.
