The hidden connection between 8 Dem senators who broke with their party to end the shutdown

The Hidden Connection Between 8 Democratic Senators Who Broke Party Lines to End Shutdown

Eight Democratic senators who voted Sunday night to advance a deal reopening the federal government share a key political link: none face re-election in 2026, granting them flexibility to break a six-week stalemate over ACA tax credits.

Senators Involved

John Fetterman (D-Pa.)
Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.)
Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.)
Dick Durbin (D-Ill.)
Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.)
Tim Kaine (D-Va.)
Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.)
Angus King (I-Maine)

Political Timeline and Terms

Durbin and Shaheen have announced their retirement, not seeking re-election when their terms expire in 2026.
Fetterman, Hassan, and Cortez Masto will face voters next in 2028.
King, Kaine, and Rosen are not up for re-election until 2030.

Voting Patterns During Shutdown

Cortez Masto, Fetterman, and King consistently supported reopening the government since the shutdown began in October.
Durbin, Hassan, Kaine, Rosen, and Shaheen previously opposed the funding bill.
Durbin, serving as Senate Democratic whip, was the only leadership member to side with Republicans.

“This bill is not perfect, but it takes important steps to reduce the shutdown’s hurt,” Durbin stated. “Now that Democrats secured these wins, it’s time for Leader Thune to keep his promise to schedule a vote on the ACA tax credits in December."

Summary

These senators leveraged their secure political positions to break ranks and help resolve the government shutdown, prioritizing progress on ACA tax credits despite party opposition.

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NJ.com — 2025-11-10

The Hidden Connection Between 8 Democratic Senators Who Broke Party Lines to End Shutdown

Senators Involved

Political Timeline and Terms

Voting Patterns During Shutdown

Summary

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