A major breakthrough has been reached in Washington as the Senate passed a deal aimed at ending the record-breaking US government shutdown. The agreement marks the first significant sign of progress after forty days of political deadlock that left more than a million federal workers unpaid and key services suspended. Following intense weekend negotiations, a group of Democrats joined Republicans in supporting the measure, which serves as a crucial first step toward restoring funding for the federal government. The government has been without funding since 1 October, and this vote opens the door for further legislative actions to bring an end to the longest US government shutdown in history. The bill still faces several challenges before becoming law, including approval from the House of Representatives. If passed, it would allow federal employees to return to work and resume normal operations. The Senate is expected to continue debate on the measure when it reconvenes Monday morning at 11:00 local time. During the shutdown, about 1.4 million federal workers have either been furloughed or forced to work without pay.
Senate Passes Deal to End Record US Government Shutdown
Essential government functions, including air travel oversight and food benefit programs, have been heavily disrupted. More than 41 million low-income Americans relying on food assistance have faced growing uncertainty as the shutdown dragged on.The new deal was brokered between Senate Majority Leader John Thune and the White House, with key contributions from Democratic Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Maggie Hassan of New Hampshire, as well as Independent Senator Angus King of Maine. With Republicans holding a 53 to 47 majority, the bill required at least 60 votes to advance. Eight Democrats crossed the aisle to support the measure, while Republican Senator Rand Paul voted against it, citing concerns about the national debt. A key provision in the agreement promises a future vote in December on extending healthcare subsidies that are set to expire this year. This issue has been central to Democratic demands during the funding standoff.
Democratic leaders had previously refused to approve new government spending without commitments to address healthcare affordability for millions of Americans who depend on federal assistance to pay for insurance. Senate Majority Leader John Thune praised the bipartisan spirit that made the deal possible. He expressed optimism about finding long-term solutions to healthcare challenges, noting that both parties are ready to work together alongside the president. However, not all Democrats are satisfied with the compromise. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized the deal for failing to provide concrete guarantees on healthcare reforms, warning that the issue remains unresolved. California Governor Gavin Newsom was also outspoken, calling the decision by some Democrats to support the measure pathetic. The agreement includes three funding bills for agencies such as Veterans Affairs and Agriculture, as well as a temporary resolution to finance the rest of the government until 30 January. It ensures back pay for federal employees affected by the shutdown and secures funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program through next September. While this vote represents an important step toward resolving the US government shutdown, lawmakers acknowledge that another funding battle could arise early next year.
source:BBC
