US Government Shutdown Ends After Senate Approves Stopgap Funding

The United States Senate has passed a key funding bill to end the government shutdown that began on October 1. The vote, held on November 9, followed an agreement with moderate Democrats, allowing federal agencies to resume operations.

The bill passed with a 60-40 margin, with eight centrist Democrats supporting the Republican-backed measure in exchange for a future vote on Affordable Care Act subsidies. The legislation is structured as a “minibus” package, funding agriculture, veterans’ programs, and the legislative branch. A continuing resolution maintains funding for other federal departments at pre-shutdown levels through January 30. Federal employees will receive back pay.

The House of Representatives must approve the bill next, followed by the President’s signature for it to become law. Senate Majority Leader John Thune expressed optimism about early passage, though procedural delays remain possible.

This agreement restores government services, protects federal workers, and highlights a rare bipartisan compromise amid ongoing debates over healthcare funding.