US Senate reaches deal to end longest-ever government shutdown
What's the story
A bipartisan group of at least eight Senate Democratic centrists has struck a deal with Senate Republican leaders and the White House to end the longest shutdown in US history within days. The agreement includes a new stopgap measure to fund the government until January, linked to a larger package that would fully fund several key agencies. The deal, however, does not guarantee an extension of healthcare subsidies, which have been central to the funding dispute.
Upcoming vote
Senate set to vote on deal soon
The Senate voted 60-40 to break a Democratic filibuster on government funding legislation in a key step toward reopening the government. The agreement was reached between former governors Sens. Jeanne Shaheen (NH), Angus King (ME), Maggie Hassan (NH), Senate Majority Leader John Thune, and White House officials. Democratic Senator Tim Kaine of Virginia has also backed the deal, citing the GOP's promise for a future vote on subsidies.
Worker protections
Federal workers' mass firing reversed
Democrats also secured an agreement from the White House to reverse mass firings of federal workers during the shutdown and protect them for the rest of the fiscal year. All federal workers will also be compensated for their time during the shutdown. However, several Senate Democratic leaders have not publicly supported the deal yet as they continue closed-door discussions. The amended package would still need to be passed by House of Representatives and forwarded to Trump, which might take days.
Opposition voices
Liberal senators, House Democrats oppose plan
Liberal senators like Connecticut's Richard Blumenthal earlier opposed the plan, emphasizing healthcare inclusion. House Democratic leaders have also slammed the deal, with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries saying they "will not support spending legislation advanced by Senate Republicans that fails to extend the Affordable Care Act tax credits." "We will fight the GOP bill in the House of Representatives," he said.
Legislation details
Broader legislation includes funding for several key areas
The broader legislation also includes three full-year appropriations bills for military construction and veterans affairs, the legislative branch, and the Department of Agriculture. It proposes $203.5 million in new funding for security measures and protection of Congress members, along with $852 million for the US Capitol Police. The government cannot reopen yet, as any senator can delay the package, and the House must also return to adopt the Senate deal.