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Government Shutdown Live Updates: Senate Talks Continue

by Emily Johnson - News Editor
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Government Shutdown Talks Show ‘Movement,’ Senators Say

Negotiations to end the ongoing government shutdown are showing signs of progress, with several Senators reporting increased discussion and a potential path forward, though significant hurdles remain.

Senator Kevin Cramer, a North Dakota Republican, told reporters today he is “seeing some movement,” adding, “there’s a lot of negotiating going on right now among members.” Cramer noted that some Democrats appear frustrated with the lack of resolution, stating, “I’ve seen more discussions. Some of the Democrats I’ve talked to are exasperated themselves and see no real benefit, politically or otherwise,” and suggesting a vote to reopen the government could come after next week’s elections. He attributed the delay to Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer being influenced by the more progressive wing of his party.

However, Democrats emphasized the need for compromise on healthcare funding. Senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut stated that talks “may be becoming more serious because the shutdown is imposing greater and increasing loss,” but warned that progress “will go nowhere if Republicans remain completely intransigent and resistant to any compromise on extending the health care coverage.” Blumenthal expressed hope that President Trump’s return to Washington could break the impasse, saying, “This shutdown could end the moment he lands, if he simply gives a thumbs up as he walks down the ramp.” The shutdown, now in its [third week](https://www.usa.gov/shutdown), is impacting federal services across the country.

Other Senators echoed the call for direct presidential involvement. Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona suggested getting the President “actually in a room” and focused on the issue, while Senator Mike Rounds of South Dakota, a GOP appropriator, reiterated that reopening the government is a prerequisite for further negotiations. The Congressional Budget Office estimates the shutdown is costing the U.S. economy billions of dollars.

Officials indicated that Democrats may be waiting for a specific date to release support for a measure to reopen the government, and further discussions are expected upon President Trump’s arrival in Washington.

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