Will the House end America’s 42-day shutdown tonight? 

A bill aimed at ending the record 42-day US government shutdown has passed a crucial stage in the House of Representatives, setting the stage for a full vote later on Wednesday.

The bipartisan measure advanced through the House Rules Committee early Wednesday morning, with all Republicans backing it and all Democrats voting against. If approved by the full House, the bill will be sent to President Donald Trump for his signature.

Speaker Mike Johnson, who has been at the center of negotiations, is optimistic the legislation will pass with overwhelming Republican support. The move follows Monday night’s Senate vote, where eight Democrats joined Republicans to pass the bill 60-40, clearing the way for the government’s reopening.

The funding measure will extend federal spending at current levels through January 30, 2026, allowing lawmakers more time to finalize a long-term budget deal for the next fiscal year. It also includes funding for key departments such as Agriculture, Veterans Affairs, and the Food and Drug Administration.

During the heated committee session, Democrats clashed with Republicans over issues including the expiration of enhanced Obamacare subsidies. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries made a surprise appearance to advocate for extending the subsidies, but his amendment was rejected.

The prolonged shutdown — now the longest in US history — has caused widespread disruptions. Air travel has been hit hard, with rising reports of “loss of separation” incidents between aircraft, while air traffic controllers and TSA officers continue working without pay.

Millions of Americans have also faced uncertainty over federal food benefits, and thousands of federal workers were temporarily laid off during the funding deadlock.

In a concession to Democrats, the new deal would reverse those layoffs and pay affected workers for the period they were off duty.

President Trump has already signaled his support for the bill, telling reporters earlier in the week, “We’ll be opening up our country very quickly.”

The House is expected to hold a final vote Wednesday evening, marking a potential end to the shutdown that has gripped Washington for more than six weeks.