WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate finds itself on Friday in a familiar position, working to avoid a partial government shutdown with just hours to spare as Democrats confront two painful options: allowing passage of a bill they believe gives President Donald Trump vast discretion on spending decisions or voting no and letting a funding lapse ensue.

They can either vote to support a House GOP stopgap measure they’ve been criticizing, or the federal government will shut down. Less than three days before a possible government shutdown, Democrats are still divided over whether they should attempt to utilize their leverage to extract concessions from Republicans or risk being blamed for a

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) has signaled his party is prepared to let the government shut down.Why it matters: Even if it's a bargaining tactic, Schumer and Democrats have put Congress closer to an outcome he's repeatedly warned against.

Senate Democrats say they are prepared to vote against the Republicans’ bill if lawmakers do not strike a deal by Friday night.