As the Senate moves one step closer to a deal that would end the government shutdown, last night's crucial vote marked the most concrete progress yet in breaking the ongoing gridlock in Congress.
Eight Senate Democrats joined Republicans in supporting the federal funding bill. In exchange for their support, Democrats promised a separate vote in the coming weeks on extending Affordable Health Care Act (ACA) subsidies.
Republican leaders want to pass the temporary funding bill to reopen the government “as quickly as possible.” However, how quickly the process moves depends on whether senators can agree on a timeframe for debate before a final vote. Any senator could delay progress by days by extending the process.
Once the bill passes the Senate, the House of Representatives will need to reconvene, vote on the deal in the Senate, and then the text will go to President Donald Trump's desk.
Impact of the Shutdown
Disruptions to essential services are deepening with the government shutdown. An appeals court has rejected the Trump administration's attempt to block full November food aid payments.
Airports are facing growing staff shortages, with new problems reported after the worst weekend for air traffic control since the lockdown began.
Reactions from Senators
Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen, who sided with Republicans in the vote, responded to the backlash from within her party on CNN. Shaheen said the criticism was directed at the wrong target, stating:
Staying in this lockdown wasn't getting us anywhere. Let them direct their criticisms in the right direction. President Donald Trump, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and the Republicans who have blocked every step that would have secured health are responsible. We must work together.
Senate Republican Leader John Thune also stated that the process should move forward quickly, saying:
“I look forward to processing more budget bills as soon as possible. I hope to have a vote on the interim funding bill within a few hours.”