WASHINGTON, D.C. (Michigan News Source) – Eight Democrats broke ranks with the party on Sunday to advance a deal that could reopen the government after the longest shutdown in U.S. history.

U.S. Senators Gary Peters and Elissa Slotkin, both Democrats from Michigan, were not on that list. Instead, they held strong to the previous 14 no votes which dragged out the shutdown.

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Peters defended his decision, telling the media “I have repeatedly said I can’t get behind a deal that doesn’t take immediate action to prevent Michiganders’ health care costs from skyrocketing more than they already have.” He continued, “Republicans have made it clear they won’t even lift a finger to address rising health care costs in this country.” Peters also added that he “won’t stop fighting to strengthen the Affordable Care Act.”

Slotkin, who campaigned as a bipartisan moderate but continues to stand with Democrats, echoed similar talking points as Peters. She said “This emergency has real-life victims, and in Michigan, the average price of health care is increasing across the board with some expected to see their premiums more than double,” Slotkin said. “Leadership is about changing and adapting when there is real need, and unless we hear that, we will fail to meet the moment.”

Senate Republicans agreed to reverse the White House’s layoff of federal workers, fully fund SNAP benefits through 2026, and vote on the elimination of subsidies for the Affordable Care Act.

U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson called members back to session on Monday.

In addition, President Donald Trump sent a signal to air traffic controllers who failed to show up to work during the shutdown and recommended a $10,000 bonus for workers who did their jobs without pay.