Historic Government Shutdown Ends After 43 Days

Washington, D.C. — The federal government shutdown officially ended on November 12, 2025, after 43 days, marking the longest shutdown in U.S. history. The resolution followed a protracted stalemate between Republicans and Democrats over a spending bill.

The White House’s government shutdown clock indicated that the impasse continued until Tuesday, even after President Donald Trump signed legislation to reopen the government. ABC News inquired about the clock, which appeared to show a running total of 48 days despite the end of the shutdown. The clock was removed shortly after the inquiry.

The clock’s last display coincided with a headline on the White House website claiming, “Democrats Shut Down the Government for a Record 43 Days.” The White House did not respond to questions regarding why the clock remained active.

The government shutdown caused disruption for thousands of furloughed federal employees and affected millions who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The impasse was fueled by disputes over enhanced tax credits linked to the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

These tax credits, part of the ACA established during the Obama administration and enhanced in 2021 under the Biden administration, are set to expire at the end of the year. To garner Democratic support for the spending bill, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., agreed to consider a vote in December on extending these tax credits. However, House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., has not committed to a vote, leaving the future of the ACA subsidies uncertain.

ABC News’ Hannah Demissie contributed to this report.