Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Senators Approve Bill Blocking Grant-Hostage Rule, Keep Government Open

8/3/2026

32 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

U.S. Senators approved a funding bill that keeps government open Dec. 11 and bars Office of Management and Budget (OMB) from changing grant approvals.
Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) said the bill blocks a policy that would let U.S. President Donald Trump hold grants hostage, as Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) praised it for halting OMB rule.
Murray and Sen. Lisa Murkowski sent letters to OMB Director Russell Vought demanding rescission.

History

Historical Context

The 1995-96 budget clash saw Senate Majority Leader Bob Dole and President Bill Clinton deadlock, producing a 21-day shutdown and a five-day shutdown that furloughed about 800,000 workers. It established congressional use of OMB rules to curb presidential impoundments. Today, Senators Patty Murray, Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski block a new OMB rule that would let former President Donald Trump withhold funds, echoing the 1995 safeguards.

1 of 2

Story summary

U.S. Senators approved a funding bill that keeps government open Dec. 11 and bars Office of Management and Budget (OMB) from changing grant approvals.
Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) said the bill blocks a policy that would let U.S. President Donald Trump hold grants hostage, as Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) praised it for halting OMB rule.
Murray and Sen. Lisa Murkowski sent letters to OMB Director Russell Vought demanding rescission.

1 / 2