USA US House of Representatives discusses government shutdown
The US House of Representatives is discussing a transitional budget today (18:00 CET) and thus a possible end to the partial government shutdown.
12.11.2025, 04:57
SDA
If the House of Representatives agrees, a signature from US President Donald Trump will be required for the interim budget to come into force. This would end the government shutdown for the time being. The so-called shutdown came about because the Republicans and Democrats were unable to agree on a budget.
This shutdown is the longest in US history: government employees have not been paid since October 1, thousands of flights have been canceled due to staff shortages and many Americans are no longer receiving food aid because no money is flowing without an agreed budget.
Exact time unclear
It is unclear exactly when the interim budget will be voted on in the US House of Representatives. The whole thing could drag on until Thursday (German time). The Republicans have a narrow majority in the House of Representatives - they have 219 MPs, the Democrats 213; 3 seats are currently vacant. Laws are passed with a simple majority.
Breakthrough in the Senate
At the weekend, there was a breakthrough in the trial of strength between Democrats and Republicans in the other chamber of the US parliament - the Senate. Some Democrats voted with the Republicans, clearing the way for a further vote on the transition budget. The Senate passed the stopgap budget on Monday.
Shutdown could return
If the shutdown is ended, this is a temporary solution. The transitional budget would apply until the end of January. Theoretically, government business could then come to a standstill again if there is no agreement on a longer-term budget.
