The US Senate has taken a significant step toward resolving the nation’s longest-ever government shutdown, which has persisted for 40 days. On Sunday, a procedural vote saw 60 senators support a bill to restore federal funding until January 30, 2026. The proposal, introduced by Republicans and backed by a group of moderate Democrats, allocates funds for essential government services, including food assistance, veterans’ programs, and legislative operations. It also reopens federal agencies and recalls furloughed employees while compensating states for expenses incurred to sustain federal programs during the shutdown. The cloture vote, passed 60-40, allows further voting on the bill with a simple majority, increasing its likelihood of approval. However, the bill still requires House approval and President Donald Trump’s signature to take effect. Notably, eight Democratic senators broke party ranks to support the bill, including Dick Durbin (Illinois), Jeanne Shaheen (New Hampshire), and Tim Kaine (Virginia). Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer expressed concerns over the bill’s lack of provisions for Affordable Care Act (ACA) healthcare funding, which will be addressed in a separate vote before December. The shutdown began on October 1 after Democrats repeatedly opposed reopening without guarantees for ACA tax credits. Political analysts highlight internal Democratic discord following recent electoral victories, casting uncertainty over ACA subsidy negotiations. The prolonged shutdown has caused widespread disruptions, including the cancellation of over 2,000 flights and delays to 7,000 others on Sunday alone. Treasury Secretary Sean Duffy warned of potential Thanksgiving travel chaos if the government remains closed. Additionally, food aid programs have faced delays, with the Capital Area Food Bank in Washington D.C. reporting a 20% increase in meals distributed to meet rising demand among unpaid federal workers.