In a statement late Wednesday evening, Congressman Don Davis explained why he voted to reopen the federal government following the longest shutdown in the country’s history.

The shutdown ended on a 222-209 bipartisan vote, he said.

The Senate amendment to HR 5371 will provide temporary funding to all federal agencies through January 30 and full-year funding for the departments of Agriculture, Veterans Affairs, and the Legislative Branch, through September 30.

“Families in eastern North Carolina must remain the priority, which is why I initially voted against the original continuing resolution in the hopes of sincere discussions on extending the ACA premium tax credits,” he said. “An increasing number of families have shared with me that they have been suffering daily over the past 49 days and 15 rounds of votes in the Senate, as many families in North Carolina’s First Congressional District are dealing with high costs and limited resources.”

Davis said, “Support for our military families, veterans, farmers, and those in need is now included in the updated continuing resolution. To support my constituents, alleviate the suffering of our families as the holidays approach, and bring vital resources to eastern North Carolina, I voted to reopen the government. While some Washington politicians from both parties have failed rural communities, the battle for healthcare is not over.”