After 40 days of government shutdown, Senate Democrats and a few Republicans reached a bipartisan agreement to end the deadlock. The resolution allows the government to continue operating without extending the expiring Obamacare subsidies, which aim to curb insurance premium increases for millions of Americans.
Key Details of the Agreement
Several Senate Democrats played a crucial role in voting for the continuing resolution (CR). This group includes:
- Sen. Angus King (I-ME)
- Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA)
- Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV)
- Sen. Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
- Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA)
- Sen. Dick Durbin (D-IL)
- Sen. Maggie Hassan (D-NH)
- Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH)
Most Republicans also supported the CR, with the exception of Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY), who broke away from his party’s stance.
House Democrats’ Response
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) expressed disappointment over the deal. He stated that any bipartisan legislation must address the Republican leadership’s handling of health care. “We will fight the GOP bill in the House of Representatives,” he declared.
Funding & Provisions
The new CR will finance the government until January 30, and it includes significant provisions, such as:
- An Agriculture-FDA and Military Construction-Veterans Affairs minibus
- Protection against federal employee layoffs until January 30, 2026
- Continued funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) through September 30, 2026
Despite these provisions, Senate Democrats will receive a vote on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies by the year’s end. However, there is skepticism about whether the House will move forward with this legislation.
Political Implications and Criticism
House Republicans suggest they do not need Democratic support to pass the legislation. This sentiment has stirred frustration among Democratic ranks. Representative Ro Khanna (D-CA) criticized the leadership of Chuck Schumer, stating, “If you can’t lead the fight to stop healthcare premiums from skyrocketing, what will you fight for?”
With the Senate poised to vote on the resolution, the outcome hinges on the upcoming House decision. The resolution signifies a critical moment in the ongoing discussion regarding health care funding and government operations.
