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.

As of Wednesday night, it looked like a path was emerging whereby Senate Democrats would abandon plans to filibuster the House-passed spending bill (known as a CR, for “continuing resolution”) needed to keep the government from shutting down midnight on Friday.