Senators pass package to keep government open through January - House to vote Wednesday

The U.S. Senate has approved a major funding bill that’s expected to end the longest partial government shutdown in American history.

On a 60–40 vote late Monday, senators passed a package to keep the government open through January 30th and provide full-year funding for the Departments of Agriculture and Veterans Affairs, along with legislative operations.

Eight Democrats broke ranks to support the bill, even though it does not include an extension of the enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies that expire at the end of the year.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune promised Democrats a separate vote next month on extending those health care tax credits — a pledge that helped win key votes from moderates like New Hampshire’s Jeanne Shaheen.

The House is expected to take up the measure Wednesday after Speaker Mike Johnson gave lawmakers 36 hours to return to Washington. Johnson said he hopes to move the bill as quickly as possible.

President Donald Trump said he supports the agreement, calling it “a very good deal,” and promising to follow its provisions requiring the rehiring of federal workers and barring layoffs through January.

Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and most of his caucus opposed the measure, saying Republicans are holding the shutdown hostage to avoid negotiating over health care.

Still, enough weary Democrats crossed the aisle to clear the way for passage — likely setting the stage for the government to reopen within days.