Congress is barreling toward a September 30 deadline to fund the government, and this week is shaping up to be a critical moment in the appropriations battle.While all twelve annual spending bills remain in limbo, the real drama is unfolding around whether Senate Democrats will use their one clear point of leverage: the 60 votes required to advance any appropriations package. .memberful-global-teaser-content p:last-child{ -webkit-mask-image: linear-gradient(180deg, #000 0%, transparent); mask-image: linear-gradient(180deg, #000 0%, transparent); } Join now to continue reading.Members get exclusive analysis, bonus features and no advertising. Learn more.If you’re already a member, sign in to your account.