Media Tip Sheet: Recent Government Shutdown To Last Until Tuesday Pending Votes From The House


February 2, 2026

WASHINGTON (February 2, 2026) – On Saturday the Senate was able to pass a funding package, but is now waiting for votes from the House which has led to a partial government shutdown. The deal includes funding for the Department of Homeland Security for two weeks to allow for long-term negotiations on federal immigration enforcement as Democrats seek to rein in the agency. The government is expected to reopen Tuesday when the House is expected to return to Washington. 

For additional context and analysis, please consider Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, a longtime public servant and higher education leader, who has extensive experience tackling critical political and social issues throughout her career. Now, as the executive director of the GW Graduate School of Political Management, she is excited to return to D.C. and help prepare the next generation of public servants and political professionals.

To speak with professor Mucarsel-Powell, please contact Skyler Sales at skylersatgwu [dot] edu (skylers[at]gwu[dot]edu).

-GW-