After 40 days of partial paralysis, the U.S. Senate advanced a measure aimed at reopening the federal government. The shutdown had sidelined hundreds of thousands of federal workers, delayed food aid, and disrupted air travel nationwide.
What Happened
In a 60–40 procedural vote, senators agreed to move forward on a House-passed funding bill. The amended version would finance the government through January 30 and include three full-year spending bills. It also ensures back pay for federal employees and prevents layoffs until the end of January a key win for worker unions.
President Donald Trump expressed optimism before the vote, saying, “It looks like we’re getting very close to the shutdown ending.”
Key Deal Points
The breakthrough came after a deal with moderate Democrats, who secured a December vote on extending Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies a Democratic priority in the standoff. The subsidies, which help low-income Americans afford health insurance, are due to expire this year.
Senators Maggie Hassan, Jeanne Shaheen, and Angus King reportedly brokered the compromise.
Shaheen said on X, “My priorities are to both reopen government and extend the ACA premium tax credits. This is our best path toward both goals.”
Political Fallout
Not all Democrats were satisfied. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer voted against the measure, while Representative Ro Khanna criticized him publicly, calling for his replacement.
Republicans, meanwhile, framed the vote as a step toward restoring government stability and negotiating ACA changes later.
Economic Stakes
Economists warn that an extended shutdown could turn fourth-quarter growth negative, especially if air travel chaos continues through Thanksgiving. White House adviser Kevin Hassett cautioned that the economic impact could deepen if operations aren’t restored soon.
Next Steps
The Senate must still finalize and pass the bill before sending it back to the House of Representatives and then to President Trump. If no unanimous consent is reached on Monday, procedural delays could extend the shutdown into next weekend.
With information from Reuters.
