3.2.1.1 – The distribution of powers within Congress
3.5.2.2 – Democrats: liberals, moderates and conservatives
Eight members of the Democratic caucus broke ranks to vote in favour of reopening the federal government on 9 November 2025. Those supporting the deal were Dick Durbin, Jeanne Shaheen, Maggie Hassan, Tim Kaine, Catherine Cortez Masto, Jacky Rosen, John Fetterman and Angus King (an independent who caucuses with the Democrats). Of this group, Durbin is not running as a Senator again, and neither is Shaheen, with the remaining six not up for re-election in the 2026 cycle. Their relative insulation from immediate electoral pressure appears to have allowed them to focus more heavily on the practical need to restore government operations.
The decision, however, triggered strong criticism within the party. Senator Bernie Sanders condemned the vote as “a very bad decision”, while Senator Chris Murphy argued that “there is no way to defend this”. California Governor Gavin Newsom also expressed frustration, calling the move “deeply disappointing”. These reactions highlight tensions between moderates who were willing to compromise to end the shutdown and the progressive/liberal wing that believed the party had conceded too much.
Yet the episode also illustrates the distinctive character of the Senate. Longer terms and a degree of political distance from constant electoral scrutiny mean senators often exercise greater independence than members of the House of Representatives. In stepping in to break the deadlock, the Senate reaffirmed its reputation as the more deliberative chamber, capable of acting when the House remains gridlocked. This moment therefore reveals both the internal divisions within the Democratic caucus and the enduring structural differences that shape the behaviour of the two chambers.