A Senate deal on Sunday night could finally end the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. Some moderate Democrats broke from their party to allow an important Senate vote that could help millions affected by the shutdown.
The deal allowed eight Democrats to break a filibuster and move the bill forward. But it faced criticism from progressives like Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren. Warren said supporting the bill “is a mistake” because the healthcare crisis isn’t over.
The vote on continuing the higher Obamacare subsidies is set for December, but there is no guarantee it will pass. Some Democrats, including Senator Ruben Gallego, warned the deal risks hurting Americans facing rising health insurance costs.
Federal workers who were unpaid or furloughed during the 40-day shutdown will get back pay. SNAP food assistance is guaranteed through 2026. Still, Democrats did not secure the guaranteed subsidy extensions they wanted, so it’s not a clear win.
President Trump stayed firm during the shutdown, refusing to negotiate on healthcare. Critics say this made the government seem uncaring, especially as millions lost food aid and air travel worsened.
Polls show many Americans blame Trump and the Republicans, but the political impact before the 2026 midterms remains unclear. Some Democrats see recent wins and healthcare as positive points, but worry the retreat could hurt their credibility on cost-of-living issues.
Democrats remain divided. Senate leader Chuck Schumer opposed the deal, while others said the shutdown’s growing costs made it necessary. The Republican-led House must still approve the bill. The fate of key Obamacare subsidies is uncertain.
Important Points
- The Senate’s compromise clears the way for the historic government shutdown to end, but the future of Obamacare subsidies is still up in the air.
- Progressive Democrats and important leaders say that the deal is bad for affordable healthcare and party unity.
- Trump is still defiant, but the GOP may be in political trouble as the healthcare debate heats up before the midterms.
- The shutdown has brought to light the rising costs of healthcare, the deep divisions between the two parties, and the lack of clarity about what American voters should do next.
