Senate advances shutdown deal with ACA subsidy vote promised in December, back pay for federal workers included.

The U.S. Senate has taken a major step toward ending the record-long government shutdown, advancing an amended funding measure by a 60–40 vote, the minimum required to overcome a filibuster. The deal, struck between Republicans and a small group of Democrats, sets up a December vote on extending Affordable Care Act subsidies, a key Democratic priority. These subsidies, which help lower-income Americans afford private health insurance, are due to expire at the end of the year.

If the Senate passes the measure in full, it must still be approved by the House of Representatives and signed by President Donald Trump, a process that could take several days. Trump, speaking at the White House, said: “It looks like we’re getting very close to the shutdown ending.”

The bill carries several important provisions:

• Federal agencies would be prohibited from firing employees until January 30, stalling Trump’s downsizing campaign.
• Back pay would be provided to all federal employees, including military personnel, Border Patrol agents, TSA screeners, and air-traffic controllers.
• The measure temporarily funds the government, buying time for further negotiations while ensuring essential services resume.

At the start of Trump’s second term, 2.2 million civilians worked for the federal government, but downsizing efforts are expected to reduce that number by 300,000 by year’s end. The bill’s protections are seen as a win for federal worker unions and their allies, who have been pressing for relief during the shutdown.

The Senate’s procedural vote marks a breakthrough after weeks of partisan gridlock. However, the path forward remains uncertain. When the Senate reconvenes, Republican leaders will attempt to secure bipartisan consent to fast-track the bill. Without such cooperation, procedural hurdles could delay final passage, potentially extending the shutdown into the following weekend.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune expressed cautious optimism after Sunday’s vote: “It was a good vote tonight. Hopefully, we’ll get an opportunity tomorrow to set up the next votes. Of course, that’s going to take some cooperation and consent.”

The deal reflects a delicate balance: Democrats secured a commitment for a future vote on ACA subsidies, while Republicans limited immediate concessions. For federal workers and millions of Americans relying on food aid and healthcare support, the measure offers temporary relief and a path toward reopening government operations.