The US House of Representatives voted on Tuesday night to pass legislation extending government funding, avoiding the risk of a shutdown before the November midterm elections. The move, driven by House Republicans, effectively delays a more contentious funding battle until after voters go to the polls, sparing lawmakers from the political fallout a shutdown could cause so close to the election.

The bill extends funding under the current fiscal year, giving Congress additional time before it must confront a fuller budget fight. The vote reflects a common tactic in Washington of using short-term extensions to avoid politically risky confrontations ahead of elections, pushing tougher negotiations over spending levels and priorities into the post-election period.