Three Senate Democrats broke with party leadership on Tuesday, voting in favor of a House Republican-backed bill to fund the government through Nov. 21. The move highlighted divisions within the Democratic caucus over how aggressively to confront the Trump administration.
Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), and Angus King (I-Maine), who caucuses with Democrats, supported the GOP proposal. Despite their votes, the measure failed 55-45, falling short of the 60 votes required to advance.
Republicans plan to reintroduce the bill on Wednesday, and some lawmakers believe additional Democrats could switch sides, potentially reopening the government—a scenario that would deal a significant blow to Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer.
Cortez Masto explained her decision, citing concern for constituents already struggling with rising costs and a weak economy. She warned that a shutdown would force tens of thousands of military personnel, union members, law enforcement agents, and contractors in Nevada to work without pay.
