Senate Passes Funding Extension, Shutdown Averted

The Senate voted 91-9 Wednesday to continue to funding the government for an additional two weeks at 2010 levels, albeit with $4 billion in cuts.

In a 335-91 vote, the bill sailed through the lower chamber Tuesday night, garnering the support of 104 Democrats and effectively extends the date of potential government shutdown to March 18. 

Six Republicans, including Michele Bachmann (R-Minn.), Steve King (R-Iowa) and Ron Paul (R-Texas), voted against the two week extension.

Congress has been operating at 2010 levels since the 112th Congress began, but funding was set to expire Friday night without Congressional action.

The concession represents a small setback for Democrats who have pledged to battle for a long-term solution.