With their newfound majority in both the House and Senate, Republicans are looking to strong-arm their own proposal at the behest of Democrats — putting the minority party in a tricky position as they weigh two options they consider politically lethal.

One crisis looks to be avoided as a midnight deadline looms to keep the government funded amid economic uncertainty and a brewing trade war.

The Senate is finding itself in a familiar position, working to avoid a partial government shutdown with just hours to spare Friday. Democrats have only painful options: allow passage of a bill they believe gives President Donald Trump vast discretion on spending decisions,