Senate Democrats block funding bills as they press for DHS changes

The Senate failed to advance a government spending package on Thursday, pushing the federal government closer to a partial shutdown set to begin just after midnight Friday. Democrats blocked a package of six spending bills, as the White House worked on a deal to separate funding for the Department of Homeland Security from other departments. The procedural vote to move the legislation forward failed 45–55, well short of the 60 votes required. While all Democrats voted against advancing the measure, several Republicans also broke ranks. Senate Majority Leader John Thune voted “no” as a procedural move that allows him