‘Immediately Do It’ — President Donald Trump Issues Order, Congress is Scrambling

The shutdown, which began in late September, officially became the longest in U.S. history on Wednesday — surpassing the 34-day closure that occurred during Trump’s first term. With federal workers unpaid for more than a month and vital programs running on emergency reserves, pressure is mounting on lawmakers to strike a deal.

Republican leaders believe the new offer — combining short-term government funding with a package of full-year spending measures — could entice moderate Democrats to vote in favor of reopening the government. Thune told reporters he hopes the proposal will win bipartisan backing but acknowledged that “the outcome is not guaranteed.”

Finalizing the agreement could take several days due to procedural delays and expected objections from both sides.

When asked whether senators would remain in Washington through the weekend, Majority Whip John Barrasso (R-WY) replied, “Yes,” signaling that leadership intends to keep the chamber in session until a resolution is reached.

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