Senate Moves to End Longest U.S. Government Shutdown
Washington D.C., Monday, 10 November 2025.
On November 9, 2025, the U.S. Senate voted 60-40 to advance a bipartisan measure to end the historic government shutdown, with eight Democrats siding with Republicans, signaling potential relief for federal workers.
Bipartisan Effort to End Shutdown
The Senate’s decision to advance the spending bill on November 9, 2025, marks a crucial step towards ending the 40-day government shutdown, the longest in U.S. history. Eight Democratic senators, including Dick Durbin and Tim Kaine, aligned with Republicans in a 60-40 vote, breaking party lines in a bid to restore government operations [1][2].
Challenges Facing the Agreement
Despite this progress, the proposed legislation still faces hurdles. The measure must pass the House and receive President Trump’s signature to officially reopen the government. The current deal does not address Democratic demands for extending Affordable Care Act tax credits, a sticking point for many party members, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, who remains opposed [2][3].
Impact on Federal Employees and Economy
The shutdown has significantly impacted approximately 1.4 million federal employees, either on unpaid leave or working without pay. This economic strain is exacerbated by halted federal contracts and a reduction in economic growth, estimated at a loss of $15 billion weekly [3][4]. The agreement promises to reinstate laid-off workers and provide back pay, but its success hinges on further legislative approval [5].
Political Repercussions and Future Outlook
The bipartisan move to end the shutdown underscores the urgent need for compromise amidst political tensions. With a looming deadline of January 2026 for continued government funding, lawmakers must navigate complex negotiations. The potential for extending health care subsidies remains uncertain, setting the stage for further debates in December 2025 [5][6].