Government Shutdown Nears End
The government is poised to reopen as Senate Democrats have split on their main demand, with several agreeing to a deal that meets Republican conditions regarding health care negotiations.
On Sunday, eight Senate Democrats expressed their backing for a spending package aimed at reopening the government until January. This agreement includes a commitment to vote next month on extending enhanced Obamacare subsidies, which are set to expire soon.
The procedural vote passed with a 60-40 majority, allowing the Senate to move forward in ending the 40-day government shutdown—the longest in U.S. history.
“This was the only deal on the table,” stated Senator Jeanne Shaheen from New Hampshire, who led negotiations for her party. “It was our best chance to reopen the government and immediately begin discussions” regarding Obamacare subsidies.
While the spending package is expected to pass in the Senate, its future in the House remains unclear. President Trump has indicated his support for this agreement, which may influence House Republicans despite opposition from many Democrats against what they see as capitulation on health care issues.
The House has been in recess since passing a temporary funding bill on September 19. The new Senate deal will replace that bill and require lawmakers to return to Washington. It may take several days for both chambers to process this legislation, meaning that government operations might not resume until Tuesday or Wednesday at the earliest.
A provision within the spending package mandates that federal employees laid off during the shutdown be reinstated and compensated retroactively. Others who were furloughed or working without pay will also receive back pay.
Most Senate Democrats opposed this measure due to its lack of an extension for enhanced Obamacare premium tax credits, which help reduce costs for consumers purchasing insurance through marketplaces established by the Affordable Care Act.
Senator Ruben Gallego from Arizona emphasized his commitment not to abandon 24 million Americans who could face skyrocketing premiums if these tax credits are not extended. Meanwhile, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer vowed that his party would continue fighting for health care reforms leading into future elections if necessary.
