Government Funding: Shutdown Showdown
September 23, 2025
With just one week remaining before current government funding expires on September 30, lawmakers are coalescing around a continuing resolution (CR) that would extend funding through November 21. However, the Senate may not clear the 60-vote threshold to advance legislation.
Why it matters: This short-term extension would maintain FY2025 spending levels and provide additional time for Congress to complete work on the FY2026 appropriations bills.
Where we stand as of today;
- House Action: House Republicans passed the stopgap legislation last week with a 217-212 vote. Two Republicans voted against, while one Democrat voted for the legislation. The Senate later voted down the bill 44-48 with two GOP and one Dem crossing the aisle.
- Senate Math: Passage in the Senate remains more complex, as at least seven Democrats will need to support the measure to reach the 60-vote threshold. On Friday, the Senate voted down Democrat’s CR to fund the government, extend Obamacare subsidies, and rollback Medicaid cuts made in the July reconciliation bill.
- Democrats are largely supportive of forcing a shutdown for now, though Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) has said he will support the CR.
- White House Position: The Administration has advocated for a longer stopgap through January 31, 2026, but House Republicans favor the shorter November date to retain leverage over final spending decisions.
What’s next: The path to avoid a shutdown is narrowing.