THE U.S. Senate appeared set on Sunday to advance a measure aimed at reopening the federal government and ending a 40-day shutdown that has sidelined federal workers, disrupted food aid, and caused widespread travel delays.
Reuters reported on Monday that U.S. Senators are expected to vote on a House-passed bill, which will be amended to combine a short-term funding measure extending government operations through January 2026 with three full-year appropriations bills.
At least eight Democrats are anticipated to back the measure, enough to secure passage in the Republican-controlled Senate, according to a source familiar with negotiations.
The amended package would still require House approval before being sent to President Donald Trump for signature, a process that could take several days.
Under the deal, Republicans have agreed to hold a December vote on extending Affordable Care Act subsidies, a Democratic priority during the funding battle.
The resolution would also restore at least some of the federal workers laid off during the shutdown and fund Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits for a year.
The negotiations were brokered by Senators Maggie Hassan and Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire and Independent Angus King of Maine. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, however, stated he would vote against the measure.
Sunday marked the 40th day of the shutdown, which has affected federal employees, food aid, parks, and air travel, with shortages in air traffic control staffing threatening further disruption during the Thanksgiving holiday season.
Senator Thom Tillis, a Republican from North Carolina, said the mounting consequences of the shutdown have pushed the Senate toward agreement. - November 10, 2025
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