Eight Democratic senators joined Republicans in a 60-to-40 vote on Sunday to advance spending legislation that could end the record government shutdown, though the measure still requires full Senate approval, House passage, and presidential signature. The compromise secured a December vote on extending expiring health insurance subsidies but not their guaranteed passage, prompting criticism from colleagues who wanted firm protections against premium increases for millions of Americans.
The senators breaking ranks included Angus King of Maine and Tim Kaine of Virginia, along with retiring members Dick Durbin of Illinois and Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, Maggie Hassan and Shaheen from New Hampshire, Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada, and Jacky Rosen of Nevada completed the group. None face reelection in 2026, allowing them political flexibility to support the deal despite its lack of guaranteed health care provisions.
The senators breaking ranks included Angus King of Maine and Tim Kaine of Virginia, along with retiring members Dick Durbin of Illinois and Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, Maggie Hassan and Shaheen from New Hampshire, Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada, and Jacky Rosen of Nevada completed the group. None face reelection in 2026, allowing them political flexibility to support the deal despite its lack of guaranteed health care provisions.
