"Schumer and McConnell Discuss Shutdown as Deadline Approaches"

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is considering taking the lead in passing a must-pass bill to fund the government as the House struggles to gather enough votes for a short-term spending bill. Schumer is in talks with Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell to reach a deal and send it to the House on the eve of a potential shutdown. He also signaled his intention to include aid to Ukraine in the package. House GOP leaders are facing challenges in getting the necessary votes, and there is talk of focusing on long-term funding bills instead. The Senate's plan may face obstacles, including opposition from Senator Rand Paul.