Live updates: Shutdown tensions flare after Democrats stop defense funding bill

LIVE Video: Trump announces move to expand IVF access

Senate Democrats voted Thursday to block the annual $852 billion defense appropriations bill as divisions deepen on Day 16 of the government shutdown. 

The upper chamber voted 50-44 against moving the bill forward, despite garnering strong bipartisan support in committee earlier this year. 

With the vote, Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) sought to put Democrats on the record blocking the bill, as Republicans spotlight how the shutdown is impacting national security. It also comes as the GOP is seeking to grab momentum back from the Democrats in week three of the shutdown.

The upper chamber this morning once again failed to reopen the government in a 51-45 vote. 

Meanwhile, President Trump announced that he will meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in the coming weeks. He will make an announcement from the Oval Office at 3 p.m. 

In state-level campaigns, two pivotal debates take place Thursday evening. New York City mayoral candidates face off, looking for an edge. Virginia attorney general candidates will meet, and the first question is bound to be about controversial text messages that have roiled the race.

Follow along all day for updates.