Senate Passes Funding Bill to End Historic Government Shutdown

On November 10, 2025, the U.S. Senate passed a continuing resolution (CR) to reopen the government after a historic 41-day shutdown, marking the longest in American history. The vote concluded with a 60-40 outcome, where eight Senate Democrats joined nearly all Republicans in supporting the measure. This legislative package funds the government through January 30, 2026, and includes three full-year appropriations bills for agriculture, military construction, and veterans' affairs.

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The agreement also ensures back pay for furloughed federal workers and reinstates those laid off during the shutdown. However, it notably lacks a commitment to extend enhanced subsidies for the Affordable Care Act (ACA), a key demand from Democrats. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) assured a vote on the ACA subsidies by mid-December, but many Democrats remain skeptical about the likelihood of success.

NPR

The decision by Senate Democrats to support the CR has sparked significant backlash within the party. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) voted against the measure, reflecting dissent among his colleagues. Critics argue that the agreement fails to address rising health care costs, which could impact millions of Americans. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) emphasized the need for Democrats to "stand and fight for health care," while Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) expressed disappointment, stating, "The people were on our side."

Senate Takes First Step Toward Ending the Government Shutdown; Durbin and Duckworth Divided

The internal conflict highlights a growing divide within the Democratic Party, as moderates and progressives clash over strategy and priorities. Some senators fear that conceding on the ACA subsidies could embolden Republican opposition and undermine future negotiations.

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The bill now moves to the House of Representatives, where Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) faces a slim GOP majority. House Democrats, led by Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY), have vowed to oppose the legislation, citing the absence of health care provisions. Jeffries criticized the deal, stating, "Donald Trump and the Republican Party own the toxic mess they have created."

Associated PressSenate Takes First Step Toward Ending the Government Shutdown; Durbin and Duckworth DividedMSNBC (website)Texas TribuneNPRBreitbart

Despite the challenges, Johnson expressed confidence in passing the bill, urging House members to return to Washington for a vote. The outcome in the House remains uncertain, as attendance issues due to travel disruptions from the shutdown could complicate the voting process.

NPR

The shutdown has had far-reaching effects, including delays in food assistance programs like SNAP, which serves millions of Americans. As federal workers faced unpaid leave, the Capital Area Food Bank reported a significant increase in meal distribution, highlighting the shutdown's impact on vulnerable populations.

Senate Takes First Step Toward Ending the Government Shutdown; Durbin and Duckworth Divided

While the Senate's passage of the funding bill marks a critical step toward ending the shutdown, the unresolved issues surrounding health care subsidies and the internal strife within the Democratic Party suggest that further political battles lie ahead. The coming weeks will be crucial as lawmakers navigate the complexities of funding and health care policy amidst a divided Congress.

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• “The American people want us to stand and fight for health care,” — Senator Elizabeth Warren, D-MA

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• “I am grateful that the end is in sight,” — Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-SD

MSNBC (website)

• “This deal is a joke that sells out working people and their health care,” — Former U.S. Rep. Colin Allred, Democratic Senate candidate

Texas Tribune

• “We will not support spending legislation advanced by Senate Republicans that fails to extend the Affordable Care Act tax credits” — House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-NY

Associated Press

• “As long as there is still any time left to reverse the MAGA health care hike, I believe we must do everything we can to force Republicans to the negotiating table," wrote Sen.” — Senator Patty Murray, D-WA

NPR

While the Senate's passage of the funding bill is a significant development, there remains uncertainty regarding the House's response. Some reports indicate that attendance issues could hinder the vote, while others suggest that moderate Democrats may break ranks to support the bill. The lack of a guaranteed vote on ACA subsidies continues to be a contentious point, with many Democrats expressing doubt about the effectiveness of future negotiations.

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