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US Congress averts shutdown; fight continues over pandemic aid
Congress swiftly passed a two-day stopgap spending bill Friday night, averting a partial government shutdown and buying time for frustratingly slow endgame negotiations on an almost $1 trillion COVID-19 economic relief package. The virus aid talks remain on track, both sides said, but closing out final disagreements is proving difficult. The House passed the temporary funding bill by a 320-60 vote as lawmakers headed for a Sunday session. The Senate approved the bill by voice vote almost immediately afterward, sending it to President Donald Trump. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., said both sides remain ... (full story)