House Vote Showdown: Key Hurdles Amid US Government Shutdown

Wed Nov 12 2025 13:58:36 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

As the US Senate has passed a bill to end the historic government shutdown, attention now turns to the House of Representatives, facing significant hurdles that could impede the funding measure's approval.

The House of Representatives is preparing to vote on a crucial spending bill to end the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. Despite the Senate passing the bill, four main obstacles lie ahead, including healthcare tax credits, Democratic opposition, potential Republican dissent, and travel delays affecting lawmakers. The outcome of this vote could shape the country’s fiscal future as the political landscape remains tense.

A day after the US Senate passed a spending bill to end the longest-ever government shutdown, the budget fight has shifted to the House of Representatives. The lower chamber is expected to vote this week on the funding measure, which poses several potential delays.

Unlike the Senate, if House Republicans maintain unity, they may not need any Democratic votes to pass the budget. However, the margin for error remains incredibly thin.

Here, we highlight four major obstacles that may impact the budget before it can be approved by Congress and sent for presidential signature.

Will House Republicans budge on healthcare?

Healthcare tax credits have emerged as a central sticking point during the shutdown, with Democrats pushing for renewed subsidies that would aid 24 million Americans. The Senate agreed only to a vote in December, leaving uncertainty about the credits.

House Speaker Mike Johnson currently has not committed to allowing a vote on these tax credits, raising questions about bipartisan support.

How intense will House Democratic opposition be?

The Democratic Party, freshly emboldened by recent election victories, is divided between pragmatic centrists and the progressive wing. While centrists may cross the aisle, progressive members express frustration over perceived capitulation to Republicans in recent negotiations.

Do Republicans have the votes?

With a slim majority of 219 seats in the House, Republicans can afford to lose only two votes. Although many are expected to support the spending plan due to Trump's endorsement, fiscal conservatives pose an internal threat to unity.

Will travel chaos delay the return to Washington?

Recent travel disruptions and delays caused by the government's budget impasse may further complicate the House's ability to convene for the vote. Legislative urgency is mounting as lawmakers face severe travel conditions amidst a nationwide travel crunch.

As the House prepares to reassemble, all eyes are on their ability to navigate these complex political waters and deliver a functional budget to prevent further disruption.