The House narrowly approved a massive spending bill Thursday night just before the government was set to run out of cash, as an unusual coalition of Republicans and Democrats teamed up to pass a measure that drew fierce criticism from both liberals and conservatives.
The $1 trillion spending measure passed 219-206, with 162 Republicans and 57 Democrats in favor. It now heads to the Senate for passage, though because the government is technically set to shut down at midnight, the House was also prepared to pass a short-term resolution to give the other chamber a few days to act.
With President Obama joining all Republican leaders and House Minority Whip Steny Hoyer in support of the package, backers were able to overcome a concerted effort led by House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi and other key liberals—including Sen. Elizabeth Warren—who complained that the measure was larded up with provisions to help Wall Street, among other special interests. Many on the right also balked at the bill, preferring to punt long-term spending decisions until next year when Republicans control the Senate.
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid took to the Senate floor shortly after the House passed the omnibus measure, assuring members that the Senate would pass a two-day continuing resolution before midnight in order to keep the government's doors open. "We'll take up the long-term spending bill tomorrow. Senators will want to debate this legislation. They'll have that opportunity," Reid said.