After the longest federal shutdown in U.S. history, the U.S. House of Representatives returns to session today for a pivotal vote that could reopen the government. The Republican-controlled chamber is expected to approve a stopgap funding bill later this afternoon following the Senate’s passage of the same measure.
The legislation would fund federal agencies through January 30, restoring critical programs such as food assistance and air-traffic control that have been disrupted since the shutdown began on October 1. House Speaker Mike Johnson, under pressure to act, has urged members to return to Washington and support the plan.
The proposal faces resistance from several House Democrats who argue that it fails to extend Affordable Care Act subsidies and other social-spending priorities sidelined in the negotiations. Meanwhile, the measure adds roughly $1.8 trillion in federal spending at a time when the national debt is approaching $38 trillion.
Today’s vote will test whether the GOP can maintain unity and whether moderate Democrats will break ranks to end the stalemate. If the measure passes, it will go to President Donald Trump for his signature, bringing relief to hundreds of thousands of furloughed workers and restoring normal government operations.
The Readovia Lens
The shutdown may soon end, but its shadow will linger. What follows will test how Washington manages accountability after seven weeks of paralysis — whether this moment becomes a turning point for governance or another chapter in political fatigue.
