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The U.S. Senate moved closer on Sunday to ending the historic 40-day federal government shutdown, with lawmakers optimistic about reaching a bipartisan deal. Senators are preparing for a Sunday night vote on a House-approved measure that would fund the government through January 2026 while combining three full-year appropriations bills, according to Senate Majority Leader John Thune.
If passed, the amended bill must return to the House before heading to President Donald Trump for his signature—a process expected to take several days. The proposal aims to reopen the government and restore federal operations that have been crippled by the shutdown, which has disrupted food aid, parks, and air travel across the country.
Senate Democrats have resisted passing short-term funding without securing healthcare concessions, particularly the extension of Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies set to expire soon. Under the tentative deal, Democrats would receive a separate vote on those subsidies later. However, Senator Richard Blumenthal criticized the plan, calling it too vague but admitted there may be enough Democratic votes for passage.
Republican Senator Thom Tillis expressed confidence that the ongoing economic strain and public frustration have created momentum for resolution. Meanwhile, White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett warned that prolonged closure could push the economy into negative growth by the fourth quarter, especially if air travel remains disrupted through Thanksgiving.
President Trump reignited debate over ACA subsidies, calling them a “windfall for health insurance companies” and urging Congress to replace them with direct payments to individuals. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Senator Lindsey Graham clarified that Trump’s healthcare proposal will only be discussed after government funding is restored.
Health experts warn that without subsidy extensions, Obamacare premiums could more than double by 2026. Democrats argue that Trump’s plan would dismantle ACA protections for pre-existing conditions, reigniting partisan divisions even as the Senate races to end the shutdown.
