The 8 Senators Who Broke With Democrats to End the Shutdown
The government is closer to reopening and ending the longest shutdown in U.S. history. This progress came after eight members of the Senate Democratic Caucus broke ranks by voting to advance a stopgap funding measure.
The Senate is controlled by Republicans with a 53-47 majority, but due to the filibuster, most legislation requires 60 votes to pass. In a late Sunday vote, Republicans secured the 60 affirmative votes needed by gaining support from eight Democrats across the aisle. However, they lost one Republican vote: Senator Rand Paul of Kentucky, who voted with the majority of Democrats.
The shutdown, entering its 40th day on Monday, has seen Republicans and Democrats locked in a bitter stalemate, each blaming the other. The disagreement centers on spending and health care issues.
Core Issues in the Dispute
- Democrats demand a reversal of Medicaid cuts present in President Trump's “Big, Beautiful Bill.”
- They also seek to extend Obamacare tax credits, which are due to expire at year-end.
- The shutdown has disrupted SNAP benefits, leaving millions uncertain about access to food stamps.
- It has also caused widespread chaos in U.S. air travel.
"Notably, the Republicans lost one vote from their own party, with Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky, who often goes head-to-head with Trump, voting with the large majority of the Democratic Caucus instead."
"Throughout the shutdown, which entered its 40th day on Monday, the Republicans and Democrats have upheld a bitter stalemate and engaged in a blame game."
Both parties continue to hold firm as negotiations proceed.
Summary
Eight Senate Democrats crossing party lines enabled a crucial vote to end the longest government shutdown, despite ongoing conflict over Medicaid and Obamacare provisions.