Core Points - US lawmakers have advanced a government funding bill, moving closer to ending the longest government shutdown in history, which has lasted for 40 days [1][2][11] - The bill requires 60 votes to advance, and while an agreement has been reached, the shutdown is not yet over as further votes are needed [2][4] - Democrats initially held out for health care tax credits to remain low for millions of Americans, but ultimately received a promise for a later vote on extending those credits [3][6] Legislative Developments - A bipartisan spending package has been proposed to fund part of the government for the remainder of the fiscal year, while the other half will continue current funding until the end of January [4][5] - There is potential for another government shutdown if concerns arise again, particularly regarding health care costs and tax credits [5][6] Market and Economic Impact - The current shutdown has not caused as much market panic as previous ones, despite its length, indicating a shift in market sentiment [7][8] - The military was expected to face payment issues earlier in the shutdown, but funding has been managed to alleviate immediate pressures [9] - Polling indicates that Americans are more likely to blame Republicans for the shutdown, which may influence future political dynamics [10][11]

Let's get right to MSNBC White House correspondent Von Hillyard, MSNBC's senior Capitol Hill correspondent and host of Way Too Early, Ali Vatitali, along with our MSNBC political analyst Brendan Buck, former aid to House Speakers Paul Ryan and John Boehner, and former Democratic Congresswoman Donna Edwards. Lots to discuss here. Van, kick us off. In addition to these two big meetings today, the president has also just announced another round of steep tariffs. Take us through this day. >> Right. It's a heck ...

Gun Control & Public Safety - The discussion revolves around the tragic shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis, highlighting the community's grief and the need to prevent such events in schools and communities [2][3][4] - Calls for action at the national level on gun control are emphasized, referencing Governor Walls' intention to call a special session [5] - The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act is mentioned as a prior effort, though insufficient, focusing on mental health care access and restricting dangerous individuals' access to firearms [7] - The senator highlights the stark contrast in gun violence rates between America and other developed countries, emphasizing the need for change [8] Healthcare & Government Oversight - The upcoming hearing with HHS Secretary Kennedy before the Senate Finance Committee is a focal point, particularly regarding the leadership shakeups at the CDC and the ousting of the CDC director [9] - Concerns are raised about RFK Jr's credibility and potential harm to the CDC due to his promotion of discredited theories about vaccines and anti-depressants [10][11] - Senator Cassidy's role in oversight is discussed, emphasizing his position on the Finance Committee and as chair of the Health Committee [13] - RFK's firing of the CDC head shortly after her confirmation is cited as an example of his untrustworthiness and disregard for established processes [14] Government Funding & Bipartisan Cooperation - Congress faces a deadline to pass a government funding bill by the end of the month, with Democrats critical of Republican-proposed cuts [15] - The senator emphasizes the need for bipartisan cooperation and warns against a "go it alone" strategy by Republicans, highlighting potential harm to constituents [16] - A commitment is made to not vote for a spending bill that is not bipartisan and does not address cuts to healthcare access [17] - Concerns are raised about potential actions by President Trump to roll back spending already authorized by Congress, referencing the previous government shutdown [18][19]