Just as predicted, Senate Democrats look to end the federal government shutdown likely after TUESDAY'S ELECTION, per Axios
💥It was all a political game. pic.twitter.com/idC1SZ9XVu
— 🦅 Eagle Wings 🦅 (@CRRJA5) October 31, 2025
Republicans believe the elements are there for a shutdown breakthrough as soon as Wednesday, betting that Democrats will soften their healthcare demands after high-profile elections in Virginia and New Jersey on Tuesday.
Over the last week, bipartisan talks have picked up among appropriators interested in hammering out a larger spending deal once the government reopens. At the same time, Washington is facing mounting political pressure as funding runs dry for food stamps and travelers face major delays at airports around the country.
The shift signals that one month into the shutdown fight, lawmakers may finally be interested in moving past the logjam. But Republicans, blocked from passing a short-term spending bill in the Senate, don’t see that happening until a handful of states hold elections seen as bellwethers for Democratic enthusiasm next year.
“They can’t quit the shutdown before the election, because they’re afraid their base will get mad at them and stay home,” said Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), an adviser to leadership who’s been involved in rank-and-file talks with Democrats.