The US Senate has made a significant breakthrough in ending the longest government shutdown in US history, with senators reaching a bipartisan deal to restore federal funding and reopen the government. The agreement, negotiated by Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Democratic senators, would fund the government through January 30 and include a package of three full-year appropriations bills. The deal also guarantees a vote on extending healthcare subsidies, a key issue for Democrats, and would reinstate federal workers who were frowned upon during the shutdown.
The Senate has advanced the bill in a procedural vote, with eight Democrats joining Republicans to support the measure. The bill now heads to the House of Representatives for approval, where it is expected to face further challenges. If passed, it would be sent to President Donald Trump for signature, potentially ending the 40-day shutdown that has disrupted government services, delayed food aid, and snarled air travel.
