Senate Aims to Break Government Shutdown Impasse with New Vote Plan

By James Morley III | Thursday, 06 November 2025 05:02 PM EST

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., plans to schedule a vote Friday to address the ongoing government shutdown, according to Politico. During a Thursday lunch, Thune informed lawmakers of his intention to advance the House-passed continuing resolution, which has previously failed 14 times but could now include a three-bill spending package negotiated with Democrats.

The revised proposal would extend federal funding through January, replacing the current Nov. 21 deadline. Bipartisan discussions are also underway regarding a potential vote on extending Affordable Care Act subsidies, though specifics remain unresolved. Thune expressed confidence in securing enough Democratic backing to pass the measure but acknowledged uncertainty due to procedural challenges and possible objections from senators.

Senate Democrats, following their own lunch meeting, maintained unity and declined to confirm support for any new Republican initiative. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-N.H., stated she could not confirm if an agreement was near, while Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., described the party’s discussion as “a very good, productive meeting.” Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., added that Democrats aimed to stay cohesive in their approach.