Senate strikes deal to avoid shutdown through Dec. 11

Key senators unveiled a short-term spending bill Sunday to fund federal agencies through Dec. 11 and avert a government shutdown during midterm campaigning. Senate Majority Leader John Thune called it his top priority before August recess, noting two record shutdowns in 10 months. Both parties want to avoid a pre-election closure, though battles over defense, non-defense spending, and grant rules remain.