The Senate is 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 Trump vast discretion on spending decisions or voting no and letting a funding lapse ensue.

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.

For the second time in less than four months, a government shutdown is looming with a matter of hours until a Friday night deadline.