As the federal government shutdown edges past the 36-day mark—setting a new record—Senate Democrats are quietly exploring ways to reopen funding, even as the party publicly maintains demands on healthcare and premium subsidies.
Internal discussions indicate a growing number of Democrats believe the impasse must end soon, with several caucus members ready to accept a short-term funding deal to restart operations. Negotiations are underway over attaching a set of spending bills to a broader resolution, while Republicans propose reopening the government now and settling policy debates later.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune has said the GOP is prepared to move on key appropriations if Democrats shift course. The change in tone comes amid mounting public frustration, furloughed workers, and benefits under threat—raising the possibility that a resolution may be imminent.