A bipartisan Senate coalition ended the 40-day government shutdown by approving a spending package that funds federal operations through January 30 while providing full-year appropriations for the Agriculture Department. The agreement, supported by approximately ten Democrats alongside all 52 Republicans, reverses job reduction orders and restores pay for furloughed workers but excludes an extension of Affordable Care Act subsidies that Democrats sought to prevent premium increases for millions of Americans.
Senators Jeanne Shaheen, Maggie Hassan, and Angus King negotiated the compromise with Republican Leader John Thune and White House officials, securing a pledge for a separate healthcare vote by mid-December without guaranteed passage. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senator Ruben Gallego opposed the measure, criticizing the absence of healthcare protections, while supporters like Senator Tim Kaine defended the deal as necessary to reopen government operations.
The legislation awaits House consideration after Senate passage, though Speaker Mike Johnson has not committed to advancing the healthcare component separately.
Senators Jeanne Shaheen, Maggie Hassan, and Angus King negotiated the compromise with Republican Leader John Thune and White House officials, securing a pledge for a separate healthcare vote by mid-December without guaranteed passage. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senator Ruben Gallego opposed the measure, criticizing the absence of healthcare protections, while supporters like Senator Tim Kaine defended the deal as necessary to reopen government operations.
The legislation awaits House consideration after Senate passage, though Speaker Mike Johnson has not committed to advancing the healthcare component separately.
