Trump Signs Bill Ending Longest U.S. Government Shutdown in History

WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump on Wednesday signed a bill to end the longest government shutdown in U.S. history, reopening federal offices and allowing hundreds of thousands of workers to return to their jobs after a 43-day standoff.

The House of Representatives passed the funding package by a vote of 222–209 earlier in the day, following approval from the Senate. The bill restores funding for key services, including food assistance programs and air traffic control operations that had been severely affected during the shutdown.

“This is no way to run a country. We can never let this happen again,” Trump said during a late-night signing ceremony at the White House, where he also criticized Democrats for the political deadlock that prolonged the crisis.

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The deal extends government funding through January 30, but economists warn it will continue to add roughly $1.8 trillion annually to the federal debt, which now stands at around $38 trillion.

The shutdown, which lasted more than six weeks, disrupted federal agencies, delayed economic data reports, and caused significant hardship for federal workers. Many economists estimate the closure cut more than a tenth of a percentage point from U.S. GDP each week, though most of the lost output is expected to be recovered in the coming months.

Republican lawmakers expressed frustration over the prolonged political standoff. “I feel like I just lived a Seinfeld episode — 40 days and still no clear plot,” said Representative David Schweikert of Arizona, criticizing Congress for letting “rage become policy.”

Democrats, meanwhile, voiced disappointment that the deal failed to secure an extension of federal health insurance subsidies. “Do not let this body become a ceremonial red stamp for an administration that takes food away from children and healthcare from families,” said outgoing Representative Mikie Sherrill of New Jersey.

Despite political tensions, the end of the shutdown brings relief to millions of Americans who rely on government programs. Key data reports from federal agencies are set to resume, providing insight into employment, inflation, and consumer spending after weeks of uncertainty.

A Reuters/Ipsos poll found that 50% of Americans blamed Republicans for the shutdown, while 47% held Democrats responsible — highlighting the deep political divide that continues to define Washington.

With the government temporarily funded, lawmakers will soon face another deadline to secure a long-term deal before the end of January, amid ongoing debates over spending, healthcare, and privacy legislation.