Longest US Government Shutdown Ends as Trump Relents on Border Wall
The longest government shutdown in U.S. history concludes after President Trump agrees to temporarily reopen federal agencies without securing border wall funding. Lawmakers now face a tight deadline to negotiate a broader immigration compromise.
The longest government shutdown in United States history officially ends as President Donald Trump and Congress agree to temporarily reopen federal agencies. This deal provides temporary funding until February 15 without allocating any money for the president's requested border wall. The House and Senate quickly pass the legislation through voice votes, and Trump signs the bill into law Friday night.
This decision marks a major reversal for the president, who previously insists he will not reopen the government without securing more than $5 billion for border wall construction. Trump's concession comes as the shutdown reaches its 35th day and the negative consequences become impossible to ignore. Federal workers miss their second consecutive paycheck, while severe airline delays disrupt travel along the East Coast.
Lawmakers now face a narrow three-week window to negotiate a broader immigration and border security compromise. If these upcoming negotiations fail to satisfy his demands, Trump openly threatens to declare a national emergency to fund the wall. The president states he hopes this alternative option remains unnecessary, but keeps the threat firmly on the table as a backup plan.