House to Vote on Bill to End Record-Long Government Shutdown

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The House of Representatives will vote Wednesday evening on a bill aimed at ending the longest government shutdown in U.S. history, which has affected millions of Americans. The legislation, designed to fund federal operations through Jan. 30, cleared the powerful House Rules Committee earlier today along party lines.

The bill advanced after more than six hours of debate, with all Republicans supporting it and Democrats opposing it. House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., indicated that he expects the measure to pass with nearly unanimous support from his party.

This shutdown, which has lasted 42 days, has seen air travel chaos increase as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and air traffic controllers have worked without pay. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy noted rising risks in air travel, highlighting increased reports of “loss of separation” incidents and runway incursions.

The Senate has already passed a version of the funding bill, and its passage through the House is a significant step toward halting the impact of the shutdown, which has left many individuals and families without essential services, such as food stamp benefits.

During the Rules Committee meeting, Democrats attempted to introduce amendments aimed at extending enhanced Obamacare subsidies that are set to expire at the end of the year. However, these proposals were ultimately defeated. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., made a notable appearance, advocating for the amendment.

Democrats expressed frustration, arguing that Republicans were neglecting healthcare responsibilities during the budget impasse. “I am sick and tired of hearing you all say we had an eight-week vacation,” Foxx said in response to accusations of negligence from her colleagues.

A provision of concern for some Republicans allows certain GOP senators to sue the government for $500,000 over the collection of their phone records by special counsel Jack Smith during a previous investigation. Representative Chip Roy, R-Texas, criticized this insertion as self-serving.

As lawmakers move to a final vote on the bill, millions of Americans watch closely, hoping for a resolution that restores critical programs and prevents further disruptions in air travel and other government services.