Washington, DC [US], November 10 (ANI): US President Donald Trump told reporters on Sunday (local time) that the government shutdown is nearing its end. His comments came as CNN reported, citing two people familiar with the discussions, that at least eight Senate Democratic centrists had reached a deal with Senate GOP leaders and the White House to reopen the government in exchange for a future vote on extending enhanced Affordable Care subsidies.
Speaking to reporters, Trump said, “It looks like we’re getting very close to the shutdown. We never agreed to give any substantial money, or any money to prisoners, illegals that come into our country, and I think that the Democrats understand that; and it looks like we’re getting close to the shutdown ending. You’ll know it very soon.”
According to CNN, the deal would bring an end to the longest shutdown in US history and include a new stopgap measure to extend government funding until January. It would also be tied to a broader package aimed at fully funding several key federal agencies.
Citing a GOP aide, CNN reported that the Senate is expected to vote on the deal between 8:30 and 9 p.m. Eastern Time on Sunday. At least eight Senate Democrats have reportedly agreed to support the measure, which was brokered Sunday night by three former governors — Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire, Angus King of Maine, and Maggie Hassan of New Hampshire — along with Senate Majority Leader John Thune and the White House.
CNN also noted that the deal does not include a guarantee from Republicans to extend the healthcare subsidies at the center of the funding standoff. However, Democrats involved in the negotiations believe GOP leaders in both chambers will discuss a potential compromise in the coming weeks.
Senate Democratic leaders have not yet publicly stated whether they support the deal, with the caucus holding a closed-door meeting for several hours on Sunday night. Meanwhile, House Democratic leaders sharply criticized the agreement. CNN reported that House Democrats plan to hold their own caucus meeting on Monday, according to a person familiar with the discussions.
The first Senate vote will address the House-passed stopgap measure, which requires support from eight Democrats to move forward. The Senate would then amend that bill with the broader funding package negotiated between both parties.
If the bill passes the Senate, it will return to the House for final approval before being sent to President Donald Trump’s desk to officially reopen the government. The entire process could take several more days. (ANI)
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