Senate Nears Deal to End Shutdown as Moderate Democrats Break Ranks
The ongoing government shutdown, now surpassing 40 days, may take a pivotal turn. Reports indicate that at least ten Senate Democrats are preparing to vote with Republicans to support a short-term funding bill. This crucial move could mark the end of the Democratic filibuster that has led to partial government closures, disrupting essential services like air traffic control and food assistance.
A procedural vote could occur as early as Sunday evening, aiming to reopen the government until January 30, 2026. This funding measure will be closely tied to a later vote on extending enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies, which has been contentious since the shutdown took effect on October 1.
Social media activity hints at the urgency of negotiations, with posts stating, “BREAKING: At least TEN Senate Democrats are expected to vote in favor of a ‘short term funding measure’ today to END the Schumer Shutdown, per Axios.” This message conveys a firm stance from Senate Republican leadership: “GIVE NO CONCESSIONS, LEADER THUNE! NOT A DIME FOR ILLEGALS OR OBAMACARE!”
Senate Majority Leader John Thune has spearheaded efforts to reopen the government through targeted appropriations bills, focusing on military, veterans’ affairs, and agricultural funding while strategically separating healthcare discussions from immediate funding needs. This approach requires support from moderate Democrats to surpass the 60-vote threshold necessary to break the filibuster.
Crucially, several moderate Democrats, including Senators Jeanne Shaheen, Angus King, and Catherine Cortez Masto, have signaled their intent to support the funding measure. A source familiar with the discussions noted, “serious movement on our side,” indicating a growing willingness among some Democrats to end the shutdown, even at the expense of obtaining healthcare concessions.
The toll of the shutdown is evident. Over 42 million Americans have faced interruptions in their food assistance. Transportation officials have issued warnings about significant reductions in air travel should the shutdown continue into Thanksgiving. With furloughs affecting thousands of federal employees, including those working without pay, the economic strain is palpable.
Despite these developments, not all Democratic voices are supportive of the emerging strategy. Progressive leaders are actively opposing any agreement that does not include a clear extension of ACA subsidies due to expire at the year’s end. Rep. Ritchie Torres lamented the proposed deal as “an unconditional surrender.” He cautioned that such compromises threaten the healthcare security of 24 million Americans. Senator Bernie Sanders echoed these concerns, suggesting that Democrats risk a “terrific mistake” by moving forward without important healthcare concessions.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer is facing increased criticism from within his party as frustration mounts among centrist Democrats. Many believe the American public is being unjustly burdened in pursuit of uncertain policy goals.
While discussing the approach to funding, Sen. Thune emphasized the importance of governance, saying, “Can I guarantee an outcome? No. But I can tell you we’re going to have that vote—and that’s the responsible way to govern.”
The proposed funding package encompasses a “minibus” of three appropriations bills: agriculture, the legislative branch, and military construction and veterans affairs, effectively restoring funding and stability to crucial services. However, it notably excludes provisions for new ACA tax credits or migrants, adhering to strict Republican demands for a “clean fix” that separates funding from healthcare debates.
In the House, Speaker Mike Johnson has kept the chamber adjourned, asserting that Democrats must show a willingness to disentangle healthcare policy from essential funding discussions before moving forward. Should the Senate successfully pass the bill Sunday night, Johnson is likely to reconvene the House to act swiftly on the same proposal.
Some Republicans, like Senator Markwayne Mullin, have voiced skepticism about Democratic cooperation amid complex political demands. Yet, the anticipated support from moderate Democrats suggests potential cracks in party lines. If the necessary Democratic votes hold, this coalition could push the GOP proposal beyond the required threshold.
The implications of the standoff are significant. Beyond increased risks tied to air travel, the expiration of ACA subsidies poses a threat of rising premiums for millions who rely on health coverage through state exchanges. Republican leadership insists that such changes warrant standalone debate, free from the pressures of funding negotiations.
Senator Ron Johnson articulated this sentiment on the Senate floor, arguing against linking healthcare credits to government funding: “What Democrats are asking for is unprecedented—extending expiring tax credits through hostage-style negotiations during a shutdown.”
The upcoming procedural vote remains uncertain. With the Thanksgiving holiday on the horizon and public sentiment shifting, lawmakers appear increasingly hesitant to extend a shutdown that profoundly affects American families. The focus shifts to the Senate floor, where a successful cross-party collaboration could bring an end to the shutdown by Monday morning—while maintaining a firm stance against concessions on ACA subsidies or immigration spending.
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