Senate Republicans are intensifying efforts to resolve the government shutdown, with Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., announcing plans to keep lawmakers in session through the weekend if Democrats fail to negotiate. Thune emphasized that the chamber should “plan to be here through the weekend,” signaling a willingness to extend discussions as negotiations escalate. A 5 p.m. vote was scheduled to maintain legislative activity, with Thune describing it as “the clearest path forward” to pass a short-term funding bill and initiate broader budget talks.
The Republican strategy focuses on reopening the government with a temporary measure extending Affordable Care Act subsidies before advancing a larger fiscal package prioritizing energy, defense, and border security initiatives. Senate Budget Committee efforts are underway to draft offsets for potential spending reductions and revenue measures, aiming to ensure the plan is “fully paid for.”
Meanwhile, Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., outlined plans for a reconciliation bill targeting border security, defense, and deficit reduction, leveraging procedural advantages to pass major legislation with a simple majority. The timing aligns with broader GOP efforts to tie the shutdown resolution to long-term policy goals, aiming to strengthen their legislative position ahead of 2026.
Democrats face internal divisions over how to respond, with moderates advocating for a short-term deal to reopen government and progressives wary of potential impacts on healthcare funding or Republican gains. GOP leaders have capitalized on this split, framing the shutdown as a test of Democratic governance while positioning themselves as the party capable of delivering fiscal reform.
Republicans insist they will remain in session until an agreement is reached, with one senior aide stating, “We’re here until we get it done.” The weekend negotiations and reconciliation push reflect a dual strategy to end the shutdown while advancing the GOP’s legislative agenda.
