U.S. ends longest government shutdown after 42 days
By : Mike Paul
Washington, Nov 13 — The United States has ended its longest government shutdown in history after Congress passed a funding bill and President Donald Trump signed it into law. The shutdown, which lasted 42 days, disrupted federal services nationwide, leaving hundreds of thousands of workers furloughed or working without pay.
The Senate approved the measure earlier this week with bipartisan support, while the House passed it by a narrow margin of 222–209. The deal provides short-term funding for most agencies until January 30, 2026, while three agencies receive full-year allocations.
The shutdown began on October 1, 2025, triggered by disputes over expiring healthcare tax credits and broader budget disagreements. Federal workers faced weeks of uncertainty, with many struggling to cover expenses as salaries were delayed. Public services, including travel, food assistance, and healthcare programs, were severely disrupted.
On November 12, President Trump signed the bill in the Oval Office, formally ending the shutdown. “This agreement restores government operations and ensures stability for our citizens,” the White House said in a statement.
Despite relief that the shutdown has ended, critics argue the deal is only a temporary fix. With funding deadlines pushed to late January, another showdown looms if long-term agreements are not reached. Analysts warn that the episode has damaged public trust and highlighted the risks of partisan brinkmanship.
The shutdown’s impact extended beyond Washington, affecting millions of Americans nationwide. Social media amplified the crisis, with hashtags like #Shutdown42Days trending globally. The prolonged closure has sparked debate about governance, accountability, and the need for structural reforms to prevent future crises.
- TNS News