Overview
- The Senate voted 60–40 to advance and pass a bipartisan measure to reopen the federal government, sending the bill to the Republican‑controlled House for a swift up‑or‑down vote.
- Funding would run through Jan. 30 and the package restores federal employees by reversing separations and guaranteeing back pay after weeks without salaries.
- Eight Democrats joined Republicans despite party resistance as the deal omits an immediate extension of enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies, promising only a future Senate vote without assurances it will become law.
- President Donald Trump hosted Syrian President Ahmed Al‑Shar' at the White House for a one hour and 36 minute meeting that was closed to press coverage.
- The Treasury announced a 180‑day partial suspension of Caesar Act sanctions that excludes some Russia‑ and Iran‑linked transactions, and Syria said it signed a political cooperation declaration with the U.S.‑led anti‑ISIS coalition with no military components so far.