Senators Break Ranks with Democrats to Support GOP Plan Against Shutdown
In a significant bipartisan move, eight senators from the Democratic caucus voted with Republicans to advance a plan aimed at ending the government shutdown. The legislation received a 60-to-40 vote, allowing it to move forward. Central to this compromise is a commitment from Senator John Thune, the Republican majority leader from South Dakota, to give Democrats a chance to vote in December on extending health care subsidies that are set to expire soon.
Key Details of the Compromise Legislation
Despite this pledge, many Democratic senators have expressed skepticism. They worry that such a promise will not be enough to garner support for reopening the government, given the current dynamics in Congress. If the subsidies lapse, millions of Americans may face increased insurance premiums.
Senators Who Supported the Plan
Among the eight senators who broke party lines, three had previously aligned with Republicans on funding measures since the onset of the shutdown. The senators who voted in favor are:
- Angus King (Independent, Maine)
- Tim Kaine (Virginia)
- Dick Durbin (Illinois)
- John Fetterman (Pennsylvania)
- Maggie Hassan (New Hampshire)
- Jeanne Shaheen (New Hampshire)
- Catherine Cortez Masto (Nevada)
- Jacky Rosen (Nevada)
Reactions from Democratic Senators
The decision to support the compromise has sparked backlash from their Democratic colleagues. Many argue that the party should have remained united to protect the critical health care subsidies.
Senator Angus King stated that the ongoing shutdown was inflicting severe pain on people, prompting some senators to seek a quick resolution. Senator Tim Kaine highlighted that his support was contingent upon the inclusion of provisions to reverse layoffs and ensure back pay for furloughed workers.
Meanwhile, Senator Dick Durbin noted that although the legislation is not ideal, it represents a significant step towards alleviating the shutdown’s impact. Senator Fetterman reiterated his long-standing opposition to shutting down the government and expressed regret for those affected.
Next Steps for the Legislation
The compromise plan must still pass the entire Senate, navigate through the Republican-controlled House, and ultimately be signed into law to effectively end the shutdown. Senators Hassan, Shaheen, and Cortez Masto stressed the urgency for bipartisan negotiations to address expiring health care subsidies amidst the ongoing governmental impasse.
This unprecedented coalition and their actions underscore the complexities of navigating party politics in a divided Congress, while highlighting the pressing need for a resolution that safeguards essential services for millions of Americans.
