Tim Kaine defends switching his vote to end the shutdown

Government Reopening & Negotiation - A senator initially voted against reopening the government but changed the vote to yes after securing key wins [1][2] - The key wins included fullyear funding for the SNAP program, protecting 45 million Americans [3] - The negotiation also secured protections for federal employees, ensuring back pay for those furloughed and a guarantee of no mass firings [3][4] - The agreement included a guarantee of a vote on a healthcare proposal put forth by the Democrats [4] Healthcare & Political Strategy - The senator viewed reopening the government as necessary to create a path, though not a guarantee, to address healthcare issues [6] - The senator emphasized the need for Democrats to present the best healthcare proposal and force a vote to reduce healthcare costs [7] - The senator contrasted the situation with the previous 40 days, where Republicans refused to engage on healthcare until the government was reopened [6] - The senator highlighted the need to adjust strategies when the initial plan isn't working, comparing it to a football team making adjustments at halftime [6]