US Government Shutdown Shows First Signs of Ending After 34 Days

The U.S. government shutdown, which began on October 1, 2025, and lasted over a month, shows early signs of resolution as Senate Republicans and Democrats discuss a possible exit from the stalemate. The shutdown has halted funding for federal programs, affecting aid for low-income Americans, military paychecks, and airport operations, with about $1.7 trillion in discretionary spending frozen. Senate Majority Leader John Thune expressed cautious optimism, while Democrats linked funding to extending an expiring health insurance subsidy, complicating negotiations. Senate Appropriations Chair Susan Collins noted progress with bipartisan efforts and specific proposals but warned the situation remains fragile and could collapse again. Both parties continue private meetings to resolve healthcare cost disagreements and budgetary issues amid mounting pressure. A bipartisan group in the House has proposed a compromise to extend Affordable Care Act tax credits with income caps to help break the impasse.