The Hitchhiker’s Guide to where we stand with a potential government shutdown

As the clock ticks down towards a potential government shutdown, Democrats are facing a tough decision. They don’t want to shut down the government, fearing the impact on federal workers and the economy. However, they also want to show their base that they are fighting against President Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s budget cuts.

The Democrats are torn between these two conflicting priorities. They may try to pass a series of amendments that are unlikely to succeed but could help them save face with their supporters. Some Democrats are considering a one-month stopgap spending bill to keep the government open.

Senator John Fetterman is the only Democrat willing to vote for the GOP’s interim spending bill, but there is a possibility that a vote on a set of amendments could convince more Democrats to break a filibuster. A test vote is expected tomorrow morning, so lawmakers need to reach a deal today.

Several Senate Democrats were tight-lipped as they left a Senate Democratic Caucus meeting, suggesting that negotiations are ongoing and delicate. Former House Speaker John Boehner used to say that “nothing good ever happens when the House has been in session for more than three consecutive weeks.” The Senate has been in session for 10 consecutive weeks, leading to growing frustration and tension among lawmakers.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune noted that this is the longest stretch of consecutive weeks for Senate activity in 15 years. If the government shuts down, lawmakers could lose their upcoming recess, adding more pressure to reach a resolution. The decision about funding the government could ultimately be made by the Senate spouses, who are growing weary of the relentless pace in Washington.

With time running out, lawmakers are facing a critical juncture as they try to avoid a government shutdown. The situation is fluid, but the stakes are high as they work towards a resolution before the deadline.