The longest US government shutdown in history appears to be nearing its end, with President Donald Trump signaling a breakthrough. ‘We are getting very close to the shutdown ending,’ Trump informed reporters, adding, ‘You’ll know it very soon.’ His comments coincide with news that a contingent of at least eight centrist Senate Democrats has reportedly agreed to a deal with Republican leadership and the White House. This potential agreement centers on reopening the government in return for a future commitment to vote on extending key Affordable Care subsidies. Trump emphasized his consistent opposition to funding for prisoners or undocumented immigrants, suggesting this point is understood by Democrats. The proposed resolution includes a short-term funding extension until January, designed to end the shutdown while paving the way for a larger appropriations bill. According to reports, the Senate was slated for a Sunday evening vote on the proposed deal, which was facilitated by several senators and White House representatives. Although the agreement does not explicitly guarantee the extension of healthcare subsidies, Democratic participants expressed confidence that compromise talks with Republican leaders would occur in the coming weeks. Senate Democratic leaders were reportedly in a closed-door meeting to discuss the proposal, while House Democratic leaders have publicly denounced it. The legislative process would involve the Senate passing a House bill, amending it with the negotiated funding, and then sending it back to the House for final consideration before it reaches the President.
