Overview
- Seven Democrats and one independent joined Republicans to pass funding after 43 days, reopening government and triggering back pay for federal workers.
- The agreement did not extend enhanced Affordable Care Act premium credits, with Senate leaders pointing to a mid-December vote and the House offering no commitment to act.
- Analysts and officials warn that roughly 20 million people could face steep premium increases and millions could lose marketplace coverage if the enhanced credits lapse at year’s end.
- Republicans discuss alternative health proposals such as direct payments or pre-funded accounts, with President Donald Trump and Sen. Bill Cassidy touting concepts that lack finalized details.
- Democratic infighting intensifies as progressives rebuke dealmakers and Sen. Chris Murphy labels the concession a mistake, while a CBS poll finds a majority think Trump and Republicans gained more from the deal.