U.S. President Donald Trump signed legislation on Wednesday evening to end the longest federal government shutdown in the nation's history, concluding a 43-day political impasse that strained public services and left hundreds of thousands of workers without pay. The bill, approved earlier in the day by the House of Representatives following Senate passage on Monday, temporarily funds government operations until January 30.
The shutdown, which began in mid-December 2024, disrupted air travel, delayed tax refunds, and forced agencies to furlough or lay off staff. Federal employees across multiple states held protests this year as missed paychecks compounded financial hardships. While the agreement provides temporary relief, lawmakers remain divided over long-term budget priorities ahead of the new deadline.
Analysts warn the economic ripple effects could influence 2025's legislative agenda, particularly as debates over fiscal responsibility intensify. The resolution comes amid heightened scrutiny of U.S. political stability from international observers and markets.
