Senate majority leader expects government funding bill will pass today to avert shutdown

 Senate Majority Leader John Thune said this morning that he expects the chamber will vote to avert a shutdown later in the day, ahead of the midnight deadline.

The timing of the final vote is still up in the air, as Republicans negotiate with Democrats to reach a timing agreement.

“The sooner we get this wrapped up the better, honestly, but you know, obviously it’s somewhat dictated by the tempo the Democrats are dictating,” Thune said.

He also noted that there may be amendment votes ahead of final passage of the bill, including potentially on the Democrats’ preferred one 30-day funding bill.