President Donald Trump has indicated that the prolonged US government shutdown is on the verge of ending. Speaking to reporters, Trump expressed optimism about a swift resolution, stating, ‘It looks like we’re getting very close to the shutdown ending.’ This comes as reports suggest a bipartisan agreement is taking shape. A group of centrist Senate Democrats have reportedly reached a deal with Republican leaders and the White House. The proposed agreement aims to reopen the government in exchange for a future vote on extending enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies. Trump emphasized that no substantial funds would be allocated to prisoners or undocumented immigrants, suggesting Democrats acknowledge this point. The deal, if finalized, would conclude the longest government shutdown in US history, incorporating a temporary funding measure until January. This measure would be linked to a broader package for funding critical government agencies. Senate proceedings were expected to begin with a vote on the deal Sunday evening, requiring the support of at least eight Democratic senators. While some Democrats involved in brokering the deal expressed belief in future negotiations on healthcare subsidies, Senate Democratic leadership has not yet publicly endorsed the plan, as the caucus convened for a closed-door discussion. Conversely, House Democratic leaders have voiced strong opposition to the proposed agreement. The legislative process, if successful in the Senate, would then move to the House for final approval before reaching the President’s desk, a process that could extend over several days.
