Senate Takes Initial Step to End Government Shutdown

A bipartisan group of Senate Democrats and Republicans has reached an agreement to reopen the U.S. government following its longest shutdown. The Senate completed the first procedural vote on the measure.

Agreement Details

The proposed agreement aims to fund the government through January 30. It includes full-year funding for several appropriations bills, notably extending the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funding through September 30, 2026, or the end of the fiscal year.

The initial vote on Sunday was 60 to 40. This tally included seven Democrats and one independent who voted with the majority of Republicans to advance the measure. While this marks a crucial step in the Senate, securing the necessary 60 votes to overcome a filibuster, subsequent Senate votes require a simple majority. The legislation still requires passage by the House of Representatives to fully end the shutdown, which would facilitate the payment of federal workers, the resumption of air traffic controller services, and the reinstatement of federal food benefits, among other provisions.

Congressional Divisions

Previously, Senate Democrats had voted against numerous short-term spending measures, primarily over disputes regarding healthcare subsidies. As the government shutdown persisted, some Democrats consented to modified terms within the new framework.

The continuing resolution also stipulates the reversal of any federal employee reductions in force enacted during the shutdown. It provides protections against further layoffs through the end of the fiscal year and ensures backpay for all federal employees affected by the shutdown.

Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.) issued a statement supporting the deal, indicating its potential to address healthcare issues and safeguard the federal workforce. The agreement reportedly includes an informal commitment for a Senate vote on a healthcare bill, chosen by Democrats, by the second week of December; this specific understanding is not part of the legislative text.

However, the compromise measure has encountered division among Democrats, with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer opposing it. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) also expressed opposition, citing concerns about the focus on healthcare.

House Opposition

Opposition also emerged from the House of Representatives. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) released a statement prior to the Senate vote, indicating non-support for spending legislation that did not extend Affordable Care Act tax credits. Representative Greg Casar of Texas characterized the deal as a "betrayal" due to its perceived failure to reduce healthcare costs. The House had not conducted a vote since September 19, having previously passed a government funding measure without Democratic support.

Political Context

The Senate agreement on government funding follows recent electoral successes for Democrats. Some members of the party had previously viewed the continuation of the government shutdown as a source of legislative leverage, given Republican control of Congress and the White House. Moderate Democrats defended their votes, characterizing the agreement as the most viable option available. Senator Kaine reiterated his support, emphasizing the opportunity for healthcare legislation and acknowledging constituent expectations.