Congress has approved a stopgap bill to fund the federal government through September 30 and avert a shutdown ahead of a Friday deadline.

Democratic leader Chuck Schumer voted alongside Republicans to advance a House GOP spending bill that would keep the government open for another six months, beyond the midnight shutdown deadline.

WASHINGTON (AP) — 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.