US Lawmakers Return to Washington for Vote to End Historic Government Shutdown
After a 53-day recess, members of the US House of Representatives returned to Washington on Tuesday to vote on a deal that could end the longest government shutdown in American history. The shutdown, which began on October 1, has entered its 42nd day, leaving federal agencies unfunded and millions of Americans affected.
More than 1,000 flights were canceled nationwide due to the shutdown’s impact on air travel, forcing lawmakers to find alternate ways to reach the Capitol. Representatives Rick Crawford and Trent Kelly carpooled from their home states, while Derrick Van Orden rode his motorcycle 16 hours from Wisconsin, saying, “It’s going to be a little chilly, but I will do my duty.”
The Republican-controlled House is set to vote Wednesday afternoon on a bipartisan funding compromise that would reopen the government and restore operations across key agencies. The Senate approved the measure on Monday night, and House Speaker Mike Johnson has expressed confidence that it will pass.
President Donald Trump praised the deal as “very good” and is expected to sign it into law, which would fund the government through January 30. However, the short-term agreement leaves open the possibility of another shutdown showdown early next year, with federal spending continuing to add roughly $1.8 trillion annually to the national debt, which now exceeds $38 trillion.
Relief for Workers and Families
Once enacted, the deal would bring relief to federal workers who have missed multiple paychecks and to low-income families relying on SNAP food assistance and other government programs. Officials warn it could take several days for air travel and other federal operations to return to normal.
The agreement also extends the SNAP food aid program through September 30, 2026, ensuring continued support for vulnerable Americans.
Political Divisions and Fallout
The compromise has split Democrats, many of whom wanted to include an extension of healthcare subsidies for 24 million Americans that are set to expire at the end of the year. Senate Republicans have agreed to a separate December vote on the issue, though passage remains uncertain.
Meanwhile, some liberal Democrats have accused their party of conceding too much in negotiations. A Reuters/Ipsos poll found that 50% of Americans blame Republicans for the shutdown, while 43% blame Democrats.
The deal also places temporary limits on Trump’s campaign to shrink the federal workforce, barring further layoffs until January 30. However, it includes no guardrails to prevent additional spending cuts.
If approved, the legislation would mark the first step toward fully reopening the federal government, restoring stability after weeks of political turmoil and economic disruption.
