Senators explore separate stopgap spending bill as House moves ahead

Senate Republicans are considering a separate stopgap spending bill as House Republicans advance their own funding measure to keep the government operational until after the midterm elections. Senate Democrats and Republicans have discussed a Senate-specific stopgap bill with exceptions to avoid service disruptions, while House GOP leaders cite Senate delays as a reason to push their legislation. Senate Democratic leader Patty Murray expressed concerns about potential flaws in the House bill but acknowledged bipartisan efforts to explore alternatives.