WATCH: Senators trade blame as they try to avoid government shutdown

Approaching a Friday deadline to fund the government, Democrats and Republicans took to the Senate floor to blame each other for the situation before them.

Republicans and Democrats alike lamented the spending bill, which seemed poised to pass by midnight after clearing a procedural vote.

"To be clear, Republicans aren't thrilled by another CR," said Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., referring to the continuing resolution that is the latest in a series of short-term budget Band-Aids lawmakers have passed as they struggle to agree on a longer-term plan.

"But it is our best option." he said, telling Democrats he hoped they wouldn't stand in the way of keeping the government open.

Democrats were split on which option was worse: Agreeing to a bill that gives President Donald Trump and adviser Elon Musk more leeway to fund their priorities and cuts, or shutting down the government, which would affect Americans and federal workers.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., came under fire from members of his own party, some of whom saw the moment as a rare and key bargaining chip in a Congress controlled by Republicans.

"This bill will mean more pain and chaos for our country. I cannot support it," Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., said.

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