Senate Vote Paves Way to End Historic Shutdown

The US Capitol dome, more than a month into the longest US government shutdown, in Washington, DC, on November 10, 2025

The U.S. Senate has taken a decisive step toward ending the nation’s longest-ever government shutdown, passing a bipartisan funding bill late Monday night. The measure, approved by a 60–40 vote, will keep the government funded through January 30, 2026, and restore pay for hundreds of thousands of federal employees who have gone without wages for more than five weeks.

The shutdown, which lasted 41 days, disrupted essential services, delayed food aid, and snarled air travel across the country. Nearly all Republicans supported the bill, joined by eight Democrats and one Independent who broke ranks to secure the necessary votes.

The legislation now moves to the House of Representatives, where lawmakers are expected to vote later this week. If passed, the bill will head to President Donald Trump, who has signaled his willingness to sign it into law.

While the agreement funds the government and averts further layoffs, Democrats were unable to secure an immediate extension of federal health subsidies. Instead, the deal guarantees a December vote on the issue, which affects millions of Americans.

House Speaker Mike Johnson has urged members to return to Washington quickly, emphasizing the urgency of ending the shutdown’s widespread impact.

If the House follows the Senate’s lead, the shutdown could officially end within days, bringing relief to federal workers and restoring stability to government operations.