As the longest government shutdown in US history deepens, Democrats have signalled their clearest path yet to reopening the federal government but with a major condition attached.
On Friday, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer announced that Democrats are ready to vote to end the shutdown if Republicans agree to a one-year extension of expiring Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits, a core element of the healthcare law known as Obamacare. &ldquo;All Republicans have to do is say yes,&rdquo; Schumer said, underscoring the urgency as airport disruptions grow, federal workers remain unpaid, and food aid for millions stands delayed.
Under the proposal, Democrats want simultaneous votes: one to reopen the government, and another to extend the ACA tax credits through the next year. They also support forming a bipartisan committee to examine Republican proposals for modifying the ACA,&nbsp; an idea pushed by Senator Gary Peters. For weeks, Democratic negotiators have been in quiet back-channel talks with a handful of Republicans, trying to shape a compromise that offers a healthcare pathway without surrendering leverage.
Republican leaders, however, remain firm: first reopen the government, then talk healthcare. With only five more votes needed to restore funding, they are considering introducing a new bipartisan package, the details of which remain under wraps.&nbsp;Senate Majority Leader John Thune said he is prepared to keep the Senate in session through the weekend, a first since the shutdown began after receiving renewed pressure from Donald Trump at a White House meeting to &ldquo;end the shutdown quickly.&rdquo;
Democrats now face a critical decision: whether to accept the Republicans&rsquo; forthcoming proposal or hold out for guaranteed action on healthcare.

Dems propose reopening govt in exchange for a one-year extension of key ACA tax credits

Democrats Offer Deal to End US Shutdown

Dems propose reopening govt in exchange for a one-year extension of key ACA tax credits

November 8, 2025 | 14:23 IST