On Sunday, the Senate conducted the first procedural step to reopen the government, a test vote on the compromise legislation. The measure passed 60-40 after eight moderate Senate Democrats reached a deal with Republican leaders and the White House.

Under the agreement, a separate vote on extending Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits is scheduled for mid-December. However, these subsidies are not guaranteed, fueling divisions among Democrats. New York Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer voted against the package, joined by most of his Democratic colleagues except for eight moderates.

Three Former Governors Break the Deadlock

Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Maggie Hassan of New Hampshire, along with Independent Senator Angus King of Maine, helped break a six-week deadlock. The trio agreed to advance the annual spending bill and extend government funding until the end of January, in exchange for a later vote on ACA subsidies.

The agreement also includes reversing mass layoffs implemented since the October 1 shutdown and ensuring federal employees receive back pay.

What Happens Next?

Senate Majority Leader John Thune swiftly endorsed the agreement, emphasizing the urgency given the shutdown’s impact on flights, food aid for millions of Americans, and federal workers’ pay.
“The time to act is now,” Thune said.

The government’s reopening is not immediate. Any senator can delay the bill for several days, and the House of Representatives must vote again to approve the deal before it goes to President Donald Trump for his signature. Full reopening could take a few more days.

Shutdown Relief Moves Forward, But Key Issues Remain

The Senate has made a decisive move to prevent a government shutdown, but health care subsidies remain uncertain. While the compromise led by three former governors and an independent senator moves the process forward, divisions among Democrats continue. Meanwhile, federal workers and public services are already feeling the effects of the partial shutdown.