BLACK mobile logo

united states

Four potential obstacles in House vote to end US shutdown

November 11, 2025

The U.S. House of Representatives is preparing to vote on a spending bill that has already passed the Senate, aiming to end the historic government shutdown. House Republicans hold a narrow majority and can pass the bill without Democratic support, but they can only afford to lose two votes. Key obstacles include disagreements over health insurance tax credit renewals that affect 24 million Americans, internal Democratic party tensions between progressive and moderate factions, and objections from fiscally conservative Republicans concerned about adding to the national debt.

Who is affected

  • 24 million Americans who rely on health insurance tax credits
  • House Republicans (219 seats) and Democrats (213 seats)
  • President Donald Trump
  • Air traffic controllers working without pay
  • Americans facing flight delays
  • Specific lawmakers mentioned: Marjorie Taylor Greene, Bernie Sanders, Gavin Newsom, Greg Casar, Jared Golden, Henry Cuellar, Thomas Massie, Rand Paul, and House Speaker Mike Johnson

What action is being taken

  • The House of Representatives is expected to vote this week (Wednesday afternoon at the earliest) on the spending bill
  • House Speaker Mike Johnson is urging lawmakers to return immediately to Washington
  • Republicans are working out their plan for health insurance subsidies with income caps and direct payments to individuals
  • Flight reduction rates are increasing to 6% starting Tuesday

Why it matters

  • This budget fight is significant because it will determine whether the longest-ever government shutdown ends and whether 24 million Americans will continue receiving health insurance subsidies that keep premiums affordable. The political stakes are high for both parties: Republicans risk a campaign issue for Democrats in upcoming midterm elections if health insurance premiums spike, while Democrats face internal divisions between progressive and moderate factions. The narrow margin in the House means even a few defectors could derail the bill, and the ongoing shutdown continues to impact essential services like air traffic control.

What's next

  • House vote scheduled for Wednesday afternoon at the earliest
  • Senate Republicans will hold a vote in December on whether to extend the health insurance subsidies
  • Republicans are developing details of their proposed income cap system and direct payment mechanism for health insurance tax credits

Read full article from source: BBC