The nation’s longest government shutdown ended Wednesday night after the House approved a short-term spending bill that restores federal operations and provides temporary funding for key agencies. The shutdown, which lasted 43 days, concluded with the passage of a measure funding military construction, veterans’ affairs, the Department of Agriculture and the legislative branch through September 30, 2026, while extending funding for the rest of the government through January 3. The Senate advanced the bill earlier in the week, and the House followed with a 222-209 vote.

The vote saw six Democrats join most Republicans to pass the legislation, with two Republicans opposing it. The decision drew mixed reactions in Ohio, where all 15 House members voted strictly along party lines. Columbus played a central role in the debate, with Rep. Joyce Beatty voicing strong objections to the bill due to the absence of health care provisions she had repeatedly insisted must be included. Beatty emphasized that thousands of residents in central Ohio were directly affected during the shutdown, arguing that the bill did not provide the necessary protections for her constituents or for the millions nationwide who faced financial uncertainty while federal operations remained halted.

Rep. Mike Carey, whose district includes parts of southern and central Ohio, supported the bill and expressed relief that the federal government would finally reopen. He noted that the legislation restores funding for essential services, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and ensures federal workers—such as air traffic controllers—receive pay after more than a month of working without compensation. Carey said the bipartisan agreement was necessary to prevent further economic strain on families and communities.

Ohio’s delegation maintained the same positions they took during the September vote on a previous temporary funding measure. The state’s 10 Republican representatives supported the new bill, while the five Democrats opposed it. The votes are listed below:

YEA Votes

NAY Votes

The shutdown’s end brings temporary stability to federal agencies and workers, but broader political challenges remain unresolved. Lawmakers will be required to revisit the issue early next year to negotiate a long-term budget agreement capable of avoiding another disruption. For Columbus and other regions across Ohio, the reopening of government means federal employees can return to paid work and essential programs can operate normally again, but debates about spending priorities and policy demands are likely to continue as Congress approaches the next funding deadline.