WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump on Wednesday signed legislation ending the 43-day government shutdown, the longest in the nation’s history, just hours after the House of Representatives voted to restart food assistance, pay federal workers, and revive air-traffic control operations.
The House approved the funding package by a vote of 222-209, with Trump’s backing keeping most Republicans in line despite strong Democratic opposition. The bill, which had already cleared the Senate, allows federal employees idled by the shutdown to return to work as early as Thursday, though a full resumption of government services may take additional time.
Read More: US government shutdown hits millions, Trump voters stay loyal
The legislation provides funding through January 30 and keeps the federal government on a path to add roughly $1.8 trillion annually to its $38 trillion debt. Some lawmakers, like Republican David Schweikert, likened the shutdown and legislative wrangling to a “Seinfeld episode,” reflecting frustration with Congress’ handling of the impasse.
While the bill addresses immediate funding, it does not guarantee an extension of federal health insurance subsidies, which are due to expire at year’s end. Democratic Representative Mikie Sherrill warned colleagues against allowing the administration to “take food away from children and rip away healthcare,” urging Congress to stand firm on broader social protections.
Read More: Senate Passes Deal to End US Shutdown
Public opinion remains divided, with a Reuters/Ipsos poll showing 50 percent of Americans blamed Republicans for the shutdown and 47 percent blamed Democrats. The House’s return to session also revived other pending matters, including potential release of unclassified records related to Jeffrey Epstein and new provisions protecting senators’ private communications, allowing legal claims for privacy violations stemming from January 6 investigations.