Watch live: Senate votes on funding bills to reopen government

Senators have left Washington without reaching an agreement to end the government shutdown, which is set to continue into next week. This deadlock highlights the ongoing political divisions that are preventing progress on crucial issues. The Senate did manage to pass the National Defense Authorization Act, but the failure to resolve the shutdown raises concerns about the impact on federal services and employees.

The Senate has successfully passed a significant defense policy bill, the National Defense Authorization Act, with a vote of 70-20, allocating $924.7 billion to fund the U.S. military for fiscal year 2026. This approval is crucial as it comes amidst a government shutdown, highlighting the importance of national security even in challenging political times. The bipartisan support reflects a commitment to maintaining military readiness and addressing defense needs.

The Senate has successfully advanced the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act with bipartisan support, marking a significant step forward during the ongoing government shutdown. This advancement is crucial as it ensures that defense funding and priorities are addressed, highlighting the importance of national security even amidst political challenges.

Travelers are facing significant delays at airports due to a government shutdown that has worsened existing staffing shortages. This situation is frustrating for many, as it not only impacts travel plans but also highlights the ongoing challenges in the aviation sector. With fewer staff available to manage operations, the ripple effects are felt by passengers and airlines alike, making travel more stressful during what is often a busy season.

As the government shutdown enters its second week, readers of the NY Post are voicing their concerns through letters to the editor. The ongoing partisan debates, particularly surrounding health care, highlight the frustrations many Americans feel about the impact of the shutdown on their daily lives. This situation matters because it not only affects government services but also reflects the deep political divides that hinder progress on critical issues.

Senator Bernie Sanders and other Democratic leaders are facing criticism for dodging questions about Virginia candidate Jay Jones, who is under fire for sending violent text messages. This situation raises concerns about the party's stance on violence and accountability, especially as they navigate a politically charged environment. The reluctance to address the issue directly could impact public perception and voter trust ahead of upcoming elections.

The ongoing government shutdown is causing significant political tension, with the White House criticizing Democrats for their role in the impasse. This situation is crucial as it affects federal operations and services, highlighting the deep divisions in U.S. politics and the challenges of governance.

The Senate is set to vote on its long-awaited defense policy bill, which has been stalled for over a month. Thanks to Senate Armed Services Committee Chair Roger Wicker, an agreement has been reached to consider 17 stand-alone amendments along with a package of nearly 50 less controversial ones. This is significant as it paves the way for the National Defense Authorization Act, ensuring that vital defense policies and funding can move forward, reflecting the government's commitment to national security.

A recent ad campaign by a consumer advocacy group has put the CEO of one of the world's largest insurance companies under scrutiny due to his close ties with the Chinese government. This revelation raises significant concerns about transparency and ethical governance in the insurance industry, highlighting the potential conflicts of interest that can arise when corporate leaders have deep connections with foreign governments. As consumers become more aware of these issues, it could lead to a shift in trust and business practices within the sector.

In a significant move, nearly all Senate Republicans have called on the FDA to reconsider the approval of a generic version of the abortion drug mifepristone. This push, directed at Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, highlights the ongoing political tensions surrounding abortion rights in the U.S. The implications of this request could affect access to medication abortion for many women, making it a crucial issue in the current political landscape.

The ongoing government shutdown has now reached its ninth day, with the Senate failing for the seventh time to pass a bill to reopen it. This impasse highlights the Democrats' current advantage in negotiations, as they block the GOP's efforts. Additionally, Letitia James faces a federal indictment, adding to the political turmoil. This situation is significant as it affects federal operations and services, impacting millions of Americans who rely on government functions.

Democratic members of Congress are emphasizing health care as a key issue in their ongoing standoff with Republican lawmakers and President Donald Trump regarding the government shutdown. This focus on health care is significant as it highlights the Democrats' strategy to leverage a critical and relatable topic to rally support and draw attention to their priorities during a contentious political moment.

During a recent gubernatorial debate in Virginia, Democrat Abigail Spanberger faced criticism for her refusal to address calls from Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears to urge Jay Jones to withdraw from the race. This moment highlights the growing tensions within the Democratic Party and raises questions about Spanberger's leadership and decision-making as she navigates a challenging political landscape.

A tragic incident has struck Minnesota as 12-year-old Raghav, who dreamed of becoming a police officer, suffered a fatal heart attack following a bike crash. Known for his cheerful spirit, Raghav's untimely passing has left a profound impact on his community, highlighting the fragility of life and the dreams of young children. His posthumous recognition as an honorary officer serves as a poignant reminder of his aspirations and the love he brought to those around him.

Matthew Schaefer's NHL debut with the Islanders was a historic moment, not just for him but also for his family and friends who supported him along the way. This milestone highlights the importance of community and personal connections in achieving dreams, making it a heartwarming story for fans and aspiring athletes alike.

Jaxson Dart has officially put the Eagles on notice with his impressive performance, signaling that he could be the franchise quarterback of the future. His ability to close the gap with the Eagles is crucial for the team's success, and his recent showing on Thursday night suggests he is ready to take on that challenge. This development is exciting for fans and could reshape the dynamics in the league.

Jennifer Forkish, the LAPD's public information director, has resigned following allegations from the acting U.S. attorney regarding a suspected leak from her office. Forkish has strongly denied these claims, stating they are 'categorically false.' This situation highlights the ongoing tensions between law enforcement and federal authorities, raising concerns about transparency and trust within the LAPD.

At a recent event hosted by Turning Point USA at the University of North Dakota, first-time conservative attendees shared their thoughts on the ongoing debate about the phrase 'owning the libs.' This discussion highlights the challenges conservatives face in engaging in political conversations, especially among newcomers to the political scene. Understanding these dynamics is crucial as it shapes how political discourse evolves on campuses and beyond.