Federal Update - November 5

November 5, 2025

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS HIGHLIGHTS

Shutdown Fallout Grows: Senate eyes multi-bill package  

RISE Session Two Underway: Graduate and professional degree definition at play 

Election Day Takeaway: Off-year elections signal pushback against Republicans 

LONGEST SHUTDOWN IN US HISTORY

What You Need to Know 

The government shutdown has now surpassed the 2018 shutdown, officially becoming the longest in American history. The House of Representatives has remained out of session since late September, while the Senate continues to vote on the same stalled resolution. The effects of the prolonged shutdown are becoming increasingly visible, with millions losing access to SNAP benefits and growing delays at airports due to staffing shortages. 

Why This Is Important 

While a resolution is not yet imminent, bipartisan negotiations in the Senate appear to be progressing. Discussions so far suggest a potential package that could combine several appropriations bills with a short-term continuing resolution for the rest of the federal government. To secure Democratic support, the package may include some sort of vote on extending Affordable Care Act subsidies, though passage of that policy in the House remains uncertain.

RISE NEG REG RESUMES

What You Need to Know  

This week, the Reimagining and Improving Student Education (RISE) Committee reconvened for its second session of negotiated rulemaking. The committee, which first met in early October, is focused on student loan limits, repayment, and rehabilitation provisions outlined in OB3. A key point of discussion has been the definition of “professional degree,” which carries implications for federal loan caps across graduate programs. 

Why This Is Important  

This is the first of two major rulemaking efforts underway. The second, led by the Accountability in Higher Education and Access through Demand-driven Workforce Pell (AHEAD) Committee, is expected to address Pell Grant eligibility, accountability measures under the Financial Value Transparency and Gainful Employment Rule and implementation of the Do No Harm framework under OB3. AHEAD is scheduled to meet in December and January, with both committees expected to finalize rules that could take effect as early as mid-2026.   

ELECTION DAY INDICATES PUSHBACK AGAINST TRUMP

What You Need to Know  

Democrats scored sweeping victories in yesterday’s off-year elections around the country. The headline-grabbing upset came in New York City, where self-identified socialist Zohran Mamdani (D) defeated former Governor Andrew Cuomo (I) to become mayor. In the two closely watched gubernatorial contests, Democrats Abigail Spanberger (VA) and Mikie Sherrill (NJ) both won decisively. Meanwhile, California voters repealed the state’s nonpartisan redistricting commission, clearing the way for Democrats to redraw congressional maps and potentially place several Republican incumbents in more competitive districts ahead of next year’s midterms.

Why This Is Important  

Off-year elections often favor the party out of power. Republicans face structural advantages due to the national congressional maps, and a pending Supreme Court case that could impact Democratic representation in the South. Whether Democrats are able to build yesterday’s results into a 2026 wave, or whether Republicans will be able to retain legislative power in Washington, remains to be seen.

For More Information

If you have any questions about this Update, please email info@myaacs.org.