Four Key Challenges Facing House Vote to End US Shutdown

Wed Nov 12 2025 14:30:59 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

After the Senate's approval of a spending bill to conclude the historic government shutdown, the budget now moves to the House. As House representatives prepare for a vote, several significant hurdles could complicate the process.

The budget fight progresses to the House of Representatives following a successful Senate vote to end the government shutdown. With potential health care debates, strained Democratic unity, and travel delays, several factors could impact the vote's outcome. Key challenges include opposition from both sides of the aisle, healthcare subsidy debates, and logistical issues facing lawmakers returning to Washington.

Four potential obstacles in House vote to end US shutdown

A day after the US Senate passed a spending bill to end the longest-ever government shutdown, the budget fight now moves to the House of Representatives, which is expected to vote this week on the funding measure.

Unlike in the Senate, House Republicans, if unified, can pass the budget without needing Democratic support, but the margin is extremely tight. There are four major obstacles that could affect the passage of the budget.

Will House Republicans budge on healthcare?

An ongoing dispute has been over the inclusion of tax credits aimed at lowering health insurance costs for 24 million Americans. Senate Republicans have only agreed to hold a vote in December, without any commitment from House Speaker Mike Johnson for a similar vote in the House.

Failure to pass subsidies could lead to skyrocketing health insurance premiums, creating a major campaign issue for Republicans in the coming midterms. Moderates like GOP Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene have expressed that the party must prioritize health insurance stability.

How intense will House Democratic opposition be?

Democrats, buoyed by recent election victories, remain divided between pragmatic and progressive factions. The progressive bloc is upset with those who supported the Senate budget effort, with figures like Senator Bernie Sanders and Congressman Greg Casar voicing strong criticism. However, some moderates may still support the package.

Do Republicans have the votes?

While Republicans control the House with a slight majority, they can only afford to lose two members for the spending plan to pass. Some fiscal hawks oppose the deal, citing concerns about the burgeoning national debt and calling for stricter budget control.

Will travel chaos delay the return to Washington?

House Speaker Mike Johnson has summoned lawmakers back to Washington for a vote next week, but adverse travel conditions, including staff shortages and bad weather, may hinder their arrival. An increase in flight cuts and harsh winter weather has been reported across the Midwest.