In recent days, the Senate has witnessed an intriguing shift in dialogue among lawmakers. Both Republicans and Democrats, particularly those on the Senate Appropriations Committee, are increasingly vocal about finding a solution to the prolonged government shutdown. Yet, this situation is far from settled, and optimism remains tempered.
Conversations have turned toward the possibility of extending the House-passed continuing resolution (CR) to buy time for completing appropriations bills. Meanwhile, Senate Democrats are reportedly considering a funding package to present to their members. However, despite these discussions, a significant hurdle persists: Senate Democrats have blocked the GOP’s CR for the thirteenth time and only received one opportunity to vote on it before heading home from Washington on Thursday. Their steadfast position hinges on requiring a solution for expiring Obamacare subsidies prior to any government reopening, despite assurances of a vote on that issue post-CR.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune expressed cautious optimism regarding the increased discussions among Senate Democrats about funding bills. He noted, however, that the complexity and duration of floor processing make immediate reopening of government essential. “Unfortunately, doing all that takes a while,” Thune remarked, emphasizing the urgency to get the government operational again.
Republican Senator John Hoeven indicated a growing awareness among Democrats that the timeline for procuring funding through traditional appropriations is drawing short. “Yes,” he replied when asked if he felt the situation was closer to a resolution compared to a month ago. Hoeven’s hope is that a breakthrough could occur either this week or next.
While the rank-and-file members are engaging in fruitful dialogue, the crucial negotiations have yet to escalate to discussions involving party leadership or the White House. Notably, President Donald Trump suggested he would be open to talking with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, though that conversation is contingent on the government reopening. Schumer pointedly remarked that delays push discussions into indefinite territory, quoting Martin Luther King Jr. and suggesting that “later” often means “never.”
For many Senate Democrats, Trump’s role is critical in determining the outcome of the shutdown. They perceive his assent as a requirement for any serious movement from Republicans. “Ultimately, you need him,” claimed Senator Chris Murphy, indicating that until Trump provides definitive direction, progress appears unlikely. On the Republican side, it is believed that the way forward hinges on Schumer finding a way to secure the necessary votes to overcome the filibuster or potentially losing a few Senate Democrats to break the deadlock. “I don’t know what else to do,” Senator John Kennedy acknowledged, reflecting the frustration shared among GOP members. His candid remark about Schumer needing to set aside personal ambitions underscores the sentiment that egos are obstructing progress.
Despite the roadblocks, lawmakers largely agree that continued discussions are vital. This sentiment resonates with the pressing realities of food benefits potentially running dry for millions, federal employees facing unpaid work, and anticipated flight disruptions due to the shutdown. These elements could motivate both parties to seek a middle ground. “There’s talks about talks,” Senator Lisa Murkowski remarked, noting the necessity for those discussions to produce tangible outcomes. Her comment captures the current state of affairs—intent is present, yet concrete progress remains elusive. As lawmakers departed for the weekend, they left with questions still looming, emphasizing the ongoing nature of this complex and contentious issue.
"*" indicates required fields
