Key lawmakers to watch as Congress faces another looming shutdown deadline

Published January 4, 2026 5:00am ET



Congress returns from holiday recess next week and will immediately face its latest government shutdown deadline, when funding is set to lapse starting Jan. 31.

Last year’s shutdown, the longest in U.S. history at 43 days over enhanced Obamacare subsidies that have now expired, offers a window into the key players with significant roles beyond the appropriators clambering to pass a yearlong budget.

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