Senate Passes Resolution to Reopen Government After Historic Shutdown

The Senate approved a continuing resolution on Monday night, effectively ending a government shutdown that lasted 40 days—the longest in history—the week following Democratic initiation of the crisis.

This 60-40 vote concludes a challenging period for Democrats, but the internal struggle regarding the party’s identity and direction is just beginning.

Senators struck a time agreement that allowed them to expedite the bill’s passage, avoiding potential delays.

While many Senate Democrats called for an end to the shutdown, there were no objections to the unanimous agreement that moved things along, even after some expressed frustration with their colleagues’ decisions over the weekend.

This division may reinforce perceptions among left-leaning voters that Democrats in Washington are not fully committed to change under the leadership of Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer.

The resolution extends government funding until January 30, 2026, and includes three full-year spending bills from a total of twelve. Moreover, it addresses back pay for federal employees and guarantees the rehiring of over 4,000 federal workers who faced layoffs during the shutdown, banning further layoffs until late January. However, these positions are minor compared to the approximately 250,000 jobs lost during the Trump administration.

Notably, the deal does not include any assurances for extending Obamacare’s enhanced premium subsidies, which were expanded during the pandemic. Democrats will only have guaranteed votes on select measures.

Majority Leader John Thune stated on the Senate floor that he plans to support the Democrats’ proposals, committing to a vote no later than the second week of December.

Currently, the bill is moving to the House of Representatives, where a vote is anticipated on Wednesday. House Speaker Mike Johnson has recalled lawmakers for this expected vote.

While the House Democratic leadership officially announced their opposition to the bill, some Democrats may still lend their support, including retired Rep. Jared Golden, who had previously voted for an earlier version of the CR.

As the shutdown ends, Democrats are expected to prioritize the expansion of Obamacare subsidies in their communications. With the public bidding for these subsidies already underway, those enhancements will lapse at the year’s end.

However, given recent events, it seems likely that Democrats may struggle to maintain unity and clarity in their messaging. If the more radical factions aren’t managed effectively, many within the party could face challenges as midterm elections approach.