The legislation, previously approved by the Senate, now heads to President Donald Trump’s desk for his signature. The bill secures the resumption of federal workers’ paychecks, restores funding for key federal agencies, and reactivates essential programmes such as food assistance and air traffic control operations.

The final vote in the House stood at 222 to 209, signaling a narrow but decisive move toward reopening government functions that had been crippled since the shutdown began.

The shutdown, which lasted 43 days, broke the previous record of 35 days set in early 2019. It stemmed from a political deadlock over federal budget allocations and border security priorities, mirroring the tensions that often arise between the executive and legislative branches during funding negotiations.

With the passage of this resolution, the U.S. government is set to resume full operations, ending weeks of uncertainty for federal employees, contractors, and citizens dependent on public services.

Observers note that the economic impact of the shutdow including delayed government payments and suspended programs could still take weeks to fully assess. For many, however, the bill’s passage brings a long awaited sense of relief and stability back to the nation’s administrative operations.

The decision follows a week of intense political negotiations as Macron struggled to break a growing deadlock in Parliament and secure a functional government. Lecornu’s return viewed by analysts as both pragmatic and risky signals Macron’s preference for continuity as France faces mounting economic and legislative pressures.

“The President has asked Prime Minister Lecornu to immediately resume his duties and form a new government capable of navigating the challenges ahead,” the Élysée Palace said in an official statement on Wednesday.

Lecornu’s initial resignation on Monday was seen as a concession to political gridlock after his government failed to secure a working majority. However, renewed talks between Macron and opposition leaders appear to have paved the way for his reinstatement a move likely aimed at stabilizing the executive branch ahead of critical fiscal deadlines.

Urgent Budget Deadline Looms

Lecornu now faces an immediate test of leadership: the presentation of France’s 2026 national budget, which must be submitted to Parliament by Monday. Political observers say the swift reappointment underscores the urgency of maintaining continuity amid deep partisan divisions and widespread public dissatisfaction with recent reforms.

Despite skepticism over his ability to command a majority in the National Assembly, Lecornu is expected to begin consultations on cabinet formation and policy priorities without delay.

“This is not about personalities,” said one Macron adviser anonymously. “It’s about getting things done, fast.”

A Delicate Balancing Act

At 39, Sébastien Lecornu is among the youngest prime ministers in French history and a close ally of Macron. His return may appease centrist factions, but opposition figures have already expressed doubt over whether a reappointment alone can break the legislative impasse.

France remains politically fractured following recent pension and immigration reform battles that have tested Macron’s leadership and strained public trust.

As Lecornu resumes office, the key question remains: can he govern effectively in a divided parliament and win over a country hungry for results?