The View from Our DC Office

Minutes ago, by a vote of 81-18, the Senate voted to end the government shutdown. The continuing resolution voted on would fund the government through February 8, reauthorize the Children’s Health Insurance Program for six years, and delay or suspend three taxes imposed under the Affordable Care Act. Democrats agreed to support to measure in exchange for Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell committing to floor time for a debate on immigration policy if no bipartisan deal is reached before February 8. Senator Tim Kaine stated that the measure also included back pay for military and federal workers during the shutdown.

The House will now have to vote on the measure. House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy announced shortly ago that the House plans to hold a vote on the continuing resolution around 5:15-6:15 p.m. McCarthy said he expects a strong bipartisan vote in support of the continuing resolution, but both House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi and House Minority Whip Steny Hoyer plan to vote no on the measure. However, they do not plan to conduct a whip count.

If both Chambers pass the continuing resolution today, President Trump is expected to sign the spending measure into law this evening bringing the government shutdown to an official end.