After pushing the United States into its longest government shutdown on record, Democrats were left grappling with the reality that their primary objectives had not been achieved. However, Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.) asserts that there were still gains, albeit limited, in the aftermath of the 41-day standoff.

Kaine’s Key Contributions

Senator Kaine highlighted that while Democrats did not secure the desired concessions regarding emergency Obamacare COVID-era subsidies, the inclusion of language protecting federal employees in the spending resolution was a significant factor in his decision to support the bill. Kaine played a pivotal role in negotiating a prohibition against reductions in force (RIFs), which became a critical concern during negotiations.

A Compromise Reached

As the Senate passed the bill, which would fund the government through January 30, it included three of the twelve required year-long spending bills, touching on segments like the legislative branch, agriculture, and Veterans Affairs. Despite this progress, the legislation notably failed to extend the expiring Obamacare tax credits that Democrats, spearheaded by House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), had pushed for—a one-year extension at a minimum.

Strategic Negotiation

Reflecting on the negotiations, Kaine recounted the moment of breakthrough. “We reached a meeting of the minds at about 5:45 this afternoon. I walked into the caucus meeting with just a kind of deadpan face, and they were like, ‘What’s going on?’ I said, ‘We’ve got the language we need,’” he recounted. His insistence prompted Republicans to offer the necessary moratorium on mass federal worker layoffs, showing that bipartisan negotiations can yield results when backed by strategic considerations.

The Impact of Electoral Gains

Kaine speculated that Republican readiness to accommodate his demands came as a reaction to recent Democratic electoral victories in Virginia, New Jersey, New York, and California. His influence in ensuring job security for federal employees cannot be understated, especially considering Virginia’s substantial federal workforce, which ranks third in the nation according to the Library of Congress. This demographic is crucial not only to Kaine’s political platform but also to the state’s economy.

Federal Workforce Security

The passed bill guarantees that there will be no mass layoffs of federal employees until at least January 30. Additionally, it mandates the reinstatement of any federal workers who were terminated during the shutdown, along with back pay. Kaine had made it clear to his party’s leadership that he might diverge from the majority if it meant safeguarding the rights and livelihoods of these workers.

Kaine stated, “I went to Sen. Schumer at the start of this and told him, ‘Here’s where I am, and here’s where I’m likely to be. I’m with you for a long time, but if there’s a path forward that can help this federal workforce…you [have to] know I’m going to be real sensitive to that.’” His commitment to protecting these jobs showcases a broader concern for the constituents who rely on federal employment.

Looking Ahead

The provisions against RIFs could extend beyond the January timeframe of the current spending bill. Kaine explained, “The CR has a provision that automatically comes into the next CR…there’s a separate provision that says once it’s in, it stays in unless it’s affirmatively repealed.” This ensures that the protections he championed could remain in place for the foreseeable future.

Reflection on the Shutdown

When asked if the government shutdown was ultimately worth it, Kaine replied affirmatively, emphasizing the importance of protecting federal employees from trauma associated with layoffs. “To federal employees who are not going to be traumatized by RIFs going forward? Yeah,” he concluded. This sentiment underscores a commitment to public service and the welfare of those who serve in federal roles, even amidst political negotiations and potential electoral ramifications.