US House votes to end shutdown, Trump backs package

The US House of Representatives is about to vote on a bill that would end the longest-running government shutdown in US history after 43 days. The package would restore food aid, pay federal employees and stabilize air traffic.

Republicans are counting on President Donald Trump's support to keep their party united despite fierce opposition from Democrats. The latter criticize the lack of an extension of health care subsidies.

Although the Senate has agreed to vote on those subsidies in December, House Speaker Mike Johnson has rejected such a commitment.

In addition, the package includes a controversial provision on financial compensation for GOP senators for alleged privacy violations during the investigation into the Capitol attack. Democrat Patty Murray called it a "corruption bonus."

In addition, the House may soon take up a vote on releasing records related to Jeffrey Epstein.

(reuters, swag)