Pressure grows as shutdown enters fourth week

"Lawmakers in both parties are grappling with growing pressure amid a stalemate that has brought Washington to a near standstill. The government shutdown entered its fourth week on Wednesday, becoming the second longest in U.S. history after surpassing another from the mid-1990s. Congress is still a long way from coming up with a solution to end the shutdown, with no major breakthroughs 22 days in. But pressure is growing on both parties to find a possible exit ramp."

"Talk among Senate Republicans about changing the filibuster to push a government funding bill over the finish line is picking up, while the GOP is seeking to turn up the heat on Democrats in a bid to force their hand. The Hill's Al Weaver reports that Republican leadership has planned specific votes this week to pay military members and essential federal workers, which they hope will drive more of a wedge among Democrats tempted to vote in favor."

Government operations remain largely halted as the shutdown enters its fourth week, making it the second-longest in U.S. history. Congressional leaders have not achieved major breakthroughs after 22 days, increasing pressure on both parties. Senate Republicans are discussing changing filibuster rules to advance funding, while GOP leadership plans votes to fund pay for military and essential federal workers to pressure Democrats. The Democratic caucus has largely rejected the House-passed continuing resolution, with only three Democrats supporting it. Senate Majority Leader John Thune has publicly favored maintaining a 60-vote threshold, even as chatter about a 'nuclear' option grows.

Read at The Hill