Senate takes first step toward ending the government shutdown. Here’s how Monday unfolded.

Senate Advances to End Government Shutdown

On Sunday, the Senate took an initial step toward ending the government shutdown after moderate Democrats agreed to move forward without a firm guarantee of extending health care subsidies. This decision upset many within their caucus, who believe the public wants them to continue opposing the shutdown.

Senate Vote Details

In a preliminary test vote, the Senate approved 60-40 to proceed with legislation funding the government and scheduling a future vote on the extension of Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits, which expire in January. The final approval could take several days as Democrats may challenge and slow the process.

Health Care Subsidies Controversy

The agreement does not ensure that the health care subsidies will be extended, a point Democrats have been insisting on for nearly six weeks.

Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer of New York voted against advancing the package, along with all but eight Democrats.

Impact and Next Steps

The Senate’s procedural vote is the first in a series needed to pass the funding legislation.
Disagreements within the Democratic caucus could delay final passage.
The future of the ACA tax credits remains uncertain.

Author’s summary: The Senate took important procedural steps to fund the government, but internal Democratic opposition and unresolved healthcare subsidy extensions threaten to prolong the shutdown.

The Boston Globe — 2025-11-10

Senate Advances to End Government Shutdown

Senate Vote Details

Health Care Subsidies Controversy

Impact and Next Steps

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