"What to watch: Senate appropriators are hustling to finish language on a three-part appropriations package, with text expected to be released as soon as Thursday evening, sources tell Axios. It's a key part of Republicans' latest offer to Democrats, which includes: Passing a stopgap funding continuing resolution until at least December 19th (final date TBD). Fully funding military construction, Veterans Affairs, the Agriculture Department and the legislative branch through the next fiscal year - taking programs like WIC and SNAP out of the shutdown equation. A promise of a vote on some kind of bill to extend the expiring Affordable Care Act subsidies - the exact substance of which is still a major question mark."
"Between the lines: Democrats remain unpersuaded, with a bloc of the caucus actively encouraging their colleagues to hold out even longer. They want Republican leaders to commit to passing an extension of ACA subsidies and assurances from Trump that he will approve it. Thune has repeatedly said he can not guarantee outcomes. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) only caused more concern by refusing on Thursday to guarantee even a vote on an ACA package in the House. "I'm not promising anybody anything. I'm going to let this process play out," he said at a press conference."
"The other side: Bipartisan negotiators were making progress on negotiations over the last two weeks, and it's clear moderates are feeling the drain over the prolonged shutdown."
Senate appropriators are finalizing text for a three-part appropriations package expected as soon as Thursday. The Republican proposal includes a stopgap continuing resolution through at least December 19, full-year funding for military construction, VA, Agriculture, and the legislative branch, and a promised vote on extending expiring Affordable Care Act subsidies. A Democratic caucus bloc is urging colleagues to hold out for a firm commitment that an ACA subsidy extension will be passed and approved by President Trump. Senator Thune and House Speaker Mike Johnson have declined to guarantee outcomes or even a House vote, leaving negotiations unresolved as moderates grow weary of the shutdown.
Read at Axios
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