Democrats Break Ranks to Try and End Government Shutdown

Government Shutdown & Legislative Process - Senate is facing potential delays in voting due to Senator Rand Paul's expected obstruction, potentially extending the process from hours to days [1] - Senator Thune expressed hope for resolution within hours, not days, regarding a plan that includes a stopgap measure to reopen the government until January 30th [2] - The compromise includes a rollback on the firing of federal workers, a policy previously championed by the White House [3] - President Trump is expected to sign the compromise if it reaches his desk, according to Senator Thune [4] Political Dynamics & Leadership - Eight senators broke ranks, including Dick Durbin, a member of the leadership, to support the compromise [5] - Chuck Schumer's leadership is being questioned due to the loss of eight votes, with some calling for his resignation [6] - The fact that none of the eight senators who broke ranks are up for reelection next November suggests a strategic calculation in their decision [6][7] - Schumer faced criticism months ago for keeping the government open in March, but the changing circumstances, particularly the impact on food benefits, have altered the calculus [8] House of Representatives & Potential Obstacles - House conservatives, particularly members of the House Freedom Caucus, may oppose the compromise due to spending levels and provisions regarding fired federal workers [9] - The Republican majority in the House is narrow, allowing for only two or three lost votes if Democrats remain united in opposition [10] - Representative-elect Gray from Arizona is expected to be sworn in before the House vote, potentially influencing the outcome [10]