Senate Votes to Put Congress on Path Toward Ending Government Shutdown
3 minute readPublished: Monday, November 10, 2025 at 3:56 am
Senate Moves Toward Ending Government Shutdown
Washington, D.C. - In a significant step toward resolving the ongoing government shutdown, the Senate voted 60-40 to advance a procedural measure that could lead to the reopening of federal agencies. The vote, which occurred late Sunday, saw eight Democrats joining 52 Republicans in support of the measure.
The path to reopening the government is not yet complete. The Senate must still vote to approve the legislation with a simple majority, a step considered likely given the initial procedural vote. Following Senate approval, the House of Representatives will need to convene and pass the same legislation.
The proposed deal includes a vote on extending Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies, which are set to expire at the end of the year. The agreement also addresses concerns about federal worker protections, including preventing baseless firings, reinstating wrongfully terminated employees, and ensuring back pay. The legislation would fund all agencies through January 30, and some projects for the full fiscal year until October 1, 2026.
The shutdown, which began on October 1, has lasted for 40 days, making it the longest in U.S. history. While the Senate vote signals progress, some lawmakers have expressed reservations. Some Democrats have voiced opposition, citing concerns about the ACA subsidies and the impact on healthcare costs. Republicans, on the other hand, have expressed skepticism about extending the subsidies.
BNN's Perspective:
The Senate's move is a positive development, but the path forward remains uncertain. The inclusion of a vote on ACA subsidies is a key point of contention, and the House's response will be crucial. While the deal offers a potential end to the shutdown, the long-term implications for healthcare costs and federal spending require careful consideration.
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