Obama Dealt First Presidential Veto Override

WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House saw it coming, but still it stung.

When President Barack Obama was hit with the first veto override of his presidency on Wednesday, it landed as a clear reminder of his dwindling political influence, years of confounding relationships with Congress and shaky prospects for the few legislative priorities he has left.

Only one of his 44 fellow Democrats in the Senate — Minority Leader Harry Reid of Nevada — stood by Obama to uphold his veto of a piece of Sept. 11 legislation. Every Republican voted to override and the Republican-led House followed suit.

No modern president has made it through two full terms without Congress overriding at least one of his vetoes. George W. Bush suffered four and Bill Clinton two.

Minnesota's Congressional delegation voted 5-3 in favor of the override with members Ellison, McCollum and Kline voting against the resolution.

Meanwhile, Congress has completed its most elementary task — but only after an intense struggle to reach a deal to fund the government just days ahead of a shutdown deadline.

The legislation extends existing spending levels a mere 10 weeks, past Election Day, while finally addressing the Zika crisis with $1.1 billion and providing long-sought help for the residents of Flint, Michigan, and flood victims in Louisiana. The legislation passed the Senate on a 72-26 vote and was backed by the House 342-85.