Senate Takes First Step Toward Ending Government Shutdown

Compromise Clears Initial Hurdle
After weeks of gridlock, the Senate on Sunday voted 60–40 to advance a bipartisan deal aimed at reopening the federal government. The test vote marks the first in a series of procedural steps toward passing compromise legislation that would fund key agencies and postpone a contentious debate over Affordable Care Act tax credits until mid-December.

The deal comes after a group of moderate Democrats — including Sens. Jeanne Shaheen, Maggie Hassan, and Independent Angus King — agreed to move forward without an immediate guarantee to extend the expiring health care subsidies, breaking a six-week stalemate. The move angered many within their caucus, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, who voted against advancing the measure.

What’s in the Deal
The agreement would reopen shuttered federal departments, restore back pay for furloughed workers, and reverse recent layoffs enacted under the Trump administration. It also includes funding for veterans’ programs, food aid, and the legislative branch through January 2026, giving lawmakers more time to finalize long-term spending bills.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune endorsed the compromise, urging colleagues to “act now” as the shutdown continues to disrupt air travel, delay food assistance, and strain federal families nationwide. President Trump, returning to Washington after the weekend, said the talks appeared “close” to ending the shutdown but stopped short of an endorsement.

Divisions Persist
While five Democrats switched votes to advance the deal, many progressives criticized it for failing to secure an immediate extension of health care subsidies. “Accepting nothing but a pinky promise from Republicans isn’t a compromise — it’s capitulation,” said Rep. Greg Casar of Texas.

House Democrats have vowed to continue pressing for a permanent fix to rising health care costs, while Republicans have framed the vote as a step toward fiscal responsibility. A final Senate vote could come later this week.