President Trump has become an unlikely ally in the progressive push to eliminate the filibuster, crediting anger over the government shutdown as the catalyst for Tuesday's “blue wave.”
California is the latest Democratic-led state to approve a redistricting measure as a way to offset similar efforts in red states. California voters Tuesday Proposition 50 approvedwhich would allow California to redraw boundaries in 10 California congressional districts, giving Democrats an advantage over Republicans in the midterm elections. This effort was made by Democrats specifically as a way to compensate for the gerrymandering of the Republican map in Texas.
Indiana Republican Gov. Mike Brown announced last month that there would be a special session on Nov. 3 to focus on redistricting. now convene in December.
California is the latest Democratic-led state to approve a redistricting measure as a way to offset similar efforts in red states. California voters Tuesday Proposition 50 approvedwhich would allow California to redraw boundaries in 10 California congressional districts, giving Democrats an advantage over Republicans in the midterm elections. This effort was made by Democrats specifically as a way to compensate for the gerrymandering of the Republican map in Texas.
“We are looking at merging with different states,” he said. added. “We don't think that's a good idea. Redistricting across the country is not a good idea. But unfortunately, Donald Trump is trying to deceive. He thinks mid-decade redistricting is fine.”
Indiana Republican Gov. Mike Brown announced last month that there would be a special session on Nov. 3 to focus on redistricting. now convene in December.
California is the latest Democratic-led state to approve a redistricting measure as a way to offset similar efforts in red states. California voters Tuesday Proposition 50 approvedwhich would allow California to redraw boundaries in 10 California congressional districts, giving Democrats an advantage over Republicans in the midterm elections. This effort was made by Democrats specifically as a way to compensate for the gerrymandering of the Republican map in Texas.
He added that while he doesn't think redistricting is a good idea, President Trump has painted Democrats into a corner. Many blue state Democratic leaders now see redistricting efforts as a way to combat the Trump administration's ongoing pressure campaign to redraw congressional maps in red states across the country, as a way to ensure Republicans retain control of the U.S. House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections.
“We are looking at merging with different states,” he said. added. “We don't think that's a good idea. Redistricting across the country is not a good idea. But unfortunately, Donald Trump is trying to deceive. He thinks mid-decade redistricting is fine.”
Indiana Republican Gov. Mike Brown announced last month that there would be a special session on Nov. 3 to focus on redistricting. now convene in December.
California is the latest Democratic-led state to approve a redistricting measure as a way to offset similar efforts in red states. California voters Tuesday Proposition 50 approvedwhich would allow California to redraw boundaries in 10 California congressional districts, giving Democrats an advantage over Republicans in the midterm elections. This effort was made by Democrats specifically as a way to compensate for the gerrymandering of the Republican map in Texas.
“We’re watching what Indiana is doing.” Pritzker said at the event on Wednesday. “We may have to respond to that. It's certainly something that people have looked at here and the legislature has looked at here. But we'll have to see what happens.”
He added that while he doesn't think redistricting is a good idea, President Trump has painted Democrats into a corner. Many blue state Democratic leaders now see redistricting efforts as a way to combat the Trump administration's ongoing pressure campaign to redraw congressional maps in red states across the country, as a way to ensure Republicans retain control of the U.S. House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections.
“We are looking at merging with different states,” he said. added. “We don't think that's a good idea. Redistricting across the country is not a good idea. But unfortunately, Donald Trump is trying to deceive. He thinks mid-decade redistricting is fine.”
Indiana Republican Gov. Mike Brown announced last month that there would be a special session on Nov. 3 to focus on redistricting. now convene in December.
California is the latest Democratic-led state to approve a redistricting measure as a way to offset similar efforts in red states. California voters Tuesday Proposition 50 approvedwhich would allow California to redraw boundaries in 10 California congressional districts, giving Democrats an advantage over Republicans in the midterm elections. This effort was made by Democrats specifically as a way to compensate for the gerrymandering of the Republican map in Texas.
Illinois' Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Wednesday that the state's redistricting efforts depend on Indiana approving a new congressional map. NPR reported.
“We’re watching what Indiana is doing.” Pritzker said at the event on Wednesday. “We may have to respond to that. It's certainly something that people have looked at here and the legislature has looked at here. But we'll have to see what happens.”
He added that while he doesn't think redistricting is a good idea, President Trump has painted Democrats into a corner. Many blue state Democratic leaders now see redistricting efforts as a way to combat the Trump administration's ongoing pressure campaign to redraw congressional maps in red states across the country, as a way to ensure Republicans retain control of the U.S. House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections.
“We are looking at merging with different states,” he said. added. “We don't think that's a good idea. Redistricting across the country is not a good idea. But unfortunately, Donald Trump is trying to deceive. He thinks mid-decade redistricting is fine.”
Indiana Republican Gov. Mike Brown announced last month that there would be a special session on Nov. 3 to focus on redistricting. now convene in December.
California is the latest Democratic-led state to approve a redistricting measure as a way to offset similar efforts in red states. California voters Tuesday Proposition 50 approvedwhich would allow California to redraw boundaries in 10 California congressional districts, giving Democrats an advantage over Republicans in the midterm elections. This effort was made by Democrats specifically as a way to compensate for the gerrymandering of the Republican map in Texas.
Illinois' Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Wednesday that the state's redistricting efforts depend on Indiana approving a new congressional map. NPR reported.
“We’re watching what Indiana is doing.” Pritzker said at the event on Wednesday. “We may have to respond to that. It's certainly something that people have looked at here and the legislature has looked at here. But we'll have to see what happens.”
He added that while he doesn't think redistricting is a good idea, President Trump has painted Democrats into a corner. Many blue state Democratic leaders now see redistricting efforts as a way to combat the Trump administration's ongoing pressure campaign to redraw congressional maps in red states across the country, as a way to ensure Republicans retain control of the U.S. House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections.
“We are looking at merging with different states,” he said. added. “We don't think that's a good idea. Redistricting across the country is not a good idea. But unfortunately, Donald Trump is trying to deceive. He thinks mid-decade redistricting is fine.”
Indiana Republican Gov. Mike Brown announced last month that there would be a special session on Nov. 3 to focus on redistricting. now convene in December.
California is the latest Democratic-led state to approve a redistricting measure as a way to offset similar efforts in red states. California voters Tuesday Proposition 50 approvedwhich would allow California to redraw boundaries in 10 California congressional districts, giving Democrats an advantage over Republicans in the midterm elections. This effort was made by Democrats specifically as a way to compensate for the gerrymandering of the Republican map in Texas.
It's unclear whether Thune's latest plan will have Democratic support, although Politico reported that Thune believes the deal has enough support to move forward. Senate GOP leadership is reportedly planning to keep senators in Washington for the weekend.
— Emine Yucel
Illinois plays chicken with Indiana
Illinois' Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Wednesday that the state's redistricting efforts depend on Indiana approving a new congressional map. NPR reported.
“We’re watching what Indiana is doing.” Pritzker said at the event on Wednesday. “We may have to respond to that. It's certainly something that people have looked at here and the legislature has looked at here. But we'll have to see what happens.”
He added that while he doesn't think redistricting is a good idea, President Trump has painted Democrats into a corner. Many blue state Democratic leaders now see redistricting efforts as a way to combat the Trump administration's ongoing pressure campaign to redraw congressional maps in red states across the country, as a way to ensure Republicans retain control of the U.S. House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections.
“We are looking at merging with different states,” he said. added. “We don't think that's a good idea. Redistricting across the country is not a good idea. But unfortunately, Donald Trump is trying to deceive. He thinks mid-decade redistricting is fine.”
Indiana Republican Gov. Mike Brown announced last month that there would be a special session on Nov. 3 to focus on redistricting. now convene in December.
California is the latest Democratic-led state to approve a redistricting measure as a way to offset similar efforts in red states. California voters Tuesday Proposition 50 approvedwhich would allow California to redraw boundaries in 10 California congressional districts, giving Democrats an advantage over Republicans in the midterm elections. This effort was made by Democrats specifically as a way to compensate for the gerrymandering of the Republican map in Texas.
It's unclear whether Thune's latest plan will have Democratic support, although Politico reported that Thune believes the deal has enough support to move forward. Senate GOP leadership is reportedly planning to keep senators in Washington for the weekend.
— Emine Yucel
Illinois plays chicken with Indiana
Illinois' Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Wednesday that the state's redistricting efforts depend on Indiana approving a new congressional map. NPR reported.
“We’re watching what Indiana is doing.” Pritzker said at the event on Wednesday. “We may have to respond to that. It's certainly something that people have looked at here and the legislature has looked at here. But we'll have to see what happens.”
He added that while he doesn't think redistricting is a good idea, President Trump has painted Democrats into a corner. Many blue state Democratic leaders now see redistricting efforts as a way to combat the Trump administration's ongoing pressure campaign to redraw congressional maps in red states across the country, as a way to ensure Republicans retain control of the U.S. House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections.
“We are looking at merging with different states,” he said. added. “We don't think that's a good idea. Redistricting across the country is not a good idea. But unfortunately, Donald Trump is trying to deceive. He thinks mid-decade redistricting is fine.”
Indiana Republican Gov. Mike Brown announced last month that there would be a special session on Nov. 3 to focus on redistricting. now convene in December.
California is the latest Democratic-led state to approve a redistricting measure as a way to offset similar efforts in red states. California voters Tuesday Proposition 50 approvedwhich would allow California to redraw boundaries in 10 California congressional districts, giving Democrats an advantage over Republicans in the midterm elections. This effort was made by Democrats specifically as a way to compensate for the gerrymandering of the Republican map in Texas.
Politico also reported Thursday afternoon that Thune told Republicans at a private dinner that he plans to hold a vote on Friday that he believes will serve as a path to ending the shutdown. Per Politician:
The plan, the people said, is to pick up the House-passed continuing resolution, which Democrats have repeatedly rejected, and then try to amend it with a new deadline, likely in January, as well as a negotiated package of three spending bills for the entire year.
It's unclear whether Thune's latest plan will have Democratic support, although Politico reported that Thune believes the deal has enough support to move forward. Senate GOP leadership is reportedly planning to keep senators in Washington for the weekend.
— Emine Yucel
Illinois plays chicken with Indiana
Illinois' Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Wednesday that the state's redistricting efforts depend on Indiana approving a new congressional map. NPR reported.
“We’re watching what Indiana is doing.” Pritzker said at the event on Wednesday. “We may have to respond to that. It's certainly something that people have looked at here and the legislature has looked at here. But we'll have to see what happens.”
He added that while he doesn't think redistricting is a good idea, President Trump has painted Democrats into a corner. Many blue state Democratic leaders now see redistricting efforts as a way to combat the Trump administration's ongoing pressure campaign to redraw congressional maps in red states across the country, as a way to ensure Republicans retain control of the U.S. House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections.
“We are looking at merging with different states,” he said. added. “We don't think that's a good idea. Redistricting across the country is not a good idea. But unfortunately, Donald Trump is trying to deceive. He thinks mid-decade redistricting is fine.”
Indiana Republican Gov. Mike Brown announced last month that there would be a special session on Nov. 3 to focus on redistricting. now convene in December.
California is the latest Democratic-led state to approve a redistricting measure as a way to offset similar efforts in red states. California voters Tuesday Proposition 50 approvedwhich would allow California to redraw boundaries in 10 California congressional districts, giving Democrats an advantage over Republicans in the midterm elections. This effort was made by Democrats specifically as a way to compensate for the gerrymandering of the Republican map in Texas.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.C.) confirmed to reporters Thursday that Republicans had made an offer to Democrats, but did not specify what it included.
Politico also reported Thursday afternoon that Thune told Republicans at a private dinner that he plans to hold a vote on Friday that he believes will serve as a path to ending the shutdown. Per Politician:
The plan, the people said, is to pick up the House-passed continuing resolution, which Democrats have repeatedly rejected, and then try to amend it with a new deadline, likely in January, as well as a negotiated package of three spending bills for the entire year.
It's unclear whether Thune's latest plan will have Democratic support, although Politico reported that Thune believes the deal has enough support to move forward. Senate GOP leadership is reportedly planning to keep senators in Washington for the weekend.
— Emine Yucel
Illinois plays chicken with Indiana
Illinois' Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Wednesday that the state's redistricting efforts depend on Indiana approving a new congressional map. NPR reported.
“We’re watching what Indiana is doing.” Pritzker said at the event on Wednesday. “We may have to respond to that. It's certainly something that people have looked at here and the legislature has looked at here. But we'll have to see what happens.”
He added that while he doesn't think redistricting is a good idea, President Trump has painted Democrats into a corner. Many blue state Democratic leaders now see redistricting efforts as a way to combat the Trump administration's ongoing pressure campaign to redraw congressional maps in red states across the country, as a way to ensure Republicans retain control of the U.S. House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections.
“We are looking at merging with different states,” he said. added. “We don't think that's a good idea. Redistricting across the country is not a good idea. But unfortunately, Donald Trump is trying to deceive. He thinks mid-decade redistricting is fine.”
Indiana Republican Gov. Mike Brown announced last month that there would be a special session on Nov. 3 to focus on redistricting. now convene in December.
California is the latest Democratic-led state to approve a redistricting measure as a way to offset similar efforts in red states. California voters Tuesday Proposition 50 approvedwhich would allow California to redraw boundaries in 10 California congressional districts, giving Democrats an advantage over Republicans in the midterm elections. This effort was made by Democrats specifically as a way to compensate for the gerrymandering of the Republican map in Texas.
Republicans now say they are willing to discuss rehiring federal workers laid off during the shutdown as part of a deal that would reopen the government, Politico reports. The deal being discussed reportedly includes a new continuing resolution to reopen the government, as well as a package of appropriations bills and a promise to hold a vote on extending expiring Obamacare subsidies.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.C.) confirmed to reporters Thursday that Republicans had made an offer to Democrats, but did not specify what it included.
Politico also reported Thursday afternoon that Thune told Republicans at a private dinner that he plans to hold a vote on Friday that he believes will serve as a path to ending the shutdown. Per Politician:
The plan, the people said, is to pick up the House-passed continuing resolution, which Democrats have repeatedly rejected, and then try to amend it with a new deadline, likely in January, as well as a negotiated package of three spending bills for the entire year.
It's unclear whether Thune's latest plan will have Democratic support, although Politico reported that Thune believes the deal has enough support to move forward. Senate GOP leadership is reportedly planning to keep senators in Washington for the weekend.
— Emine Yucel
Illinois plays chicken with Indiana
Illinois' Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Wednesday that the state's redistricting efforts depend on Indiana approving a new congressional map. NPR reported.
“We’re watching what Indiana is doing.” Pritzker said at the event on Wednesday. “We may have to respond to that. It's certainly something that people have looked at here and the legislature has looked at here. But we'll have to see what happens.”
He added that while he doesn't think redistricting is a good idea, President Trump has painted Democrats into a corner. Many blue state Democratic leaders now see redistricting efforts as a way to combat the Trump administration's ongoing pressure campaign to redraw congressional maps in red states across the country, as a way to ensure Republicans retain control of the U.S. House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections.
“We are looking at merging with different states,” he said. added. “We don't think that's a good idea. Redistricting across the country is not a good idea. But unfortunately, Donald Trump is trying to deceive. He thinks mid-decade redistricting is fine.”
Indiana Republican Gov. Mike Brown announced last month that there would be a special session on Nov. 3 to focus on redistricting. now convene in December.
California is the latest Democratic-led state to approve a redistricting measure as a way to offset similar efforts in red states. California voters Tuesday Proposition 50 approvedwhich would allow California to redraw boundaries in 10 California congressional districts, giving Democrats an advantage over Republicans in the midterm elections. This effort was made by Democrats specifically as a way to compensate for the gerrymandering of the Republican map in Texas.
republicans has reportedly made an updated offer Senate Democrats on Thursday as rank-and-file senators continue to negotiate how to end the ongoing shutdown.
Republicans now say they are willing to discuss rehiring federal workers laid off during the shutdown as part of a deal that would reopen the government, Politico reports. The deal being discussed reportedly includes a new continuing resolution to reopen the government, as well as a package of appropriations bills and a promise to hold a vote on extending expiring Obamacare subsidies.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.C.) confirmed to reporters Thursday that Republicans had made an offer to Democrats, but did not specify what it included.
Politico also reported Thursday afternoon that Thune told Republicans at a private dinner that he plans to hold a vote on Friday that he believes will serve as a path to ending the shutdown. Per Politician:
The plan, the people said, is to pick up the House-passed continuing resolution, which Democrats have repeatedly rejected, and then try to amend it with a new deadline, likely in January, as well as a negotiated package of three spending bills for the entire year.
It's unclear whether Thune's latest plan will have Democratic support, although Politico reported that Thune believes the deal has enough support to move forward. Senate GOP leadership is reportedly planning to keep senators in Washington for the weekend.
— Emine Yucel
Illinois plays chicken with Indiana
Illinois' Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Wednesday that the state's redistricting efforts depend on Indiana approving a new congressional map. NPR reported.
“We’re watching what Indiana is doing.” Pritzker said at the event on Wednesday. “We may have to respond to that. It's certainly something that people have looked at here and the legislature has looked at here. But we'll have to see what happens.”
He added that while he doesn't think redistricting is a good idea, President Trump has painted Democrats into a corner. Many blue state Democratic leaders now see redistricting efforts as a way to combat the Trump administration's ongoing pressure campaign to redraw congressional maps in red states across the country, as a way to ensure Republicans retain control of the U.S. House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections.
“We are looking at merging with different states,” he said. added. “We don't think that's a good idea. Redistricting across the country is not a good idea. But unfortunately, Donald Trump is trying to deceive. He thinks mid-decade redistricting is fine.”
Indiana Republican Gov. Mike Brown announced last month that there would be a special session on Nov. 3 to focus on redistricting. now convene in December.
California is the latest Democratic-led state to approve a redistricting measure as a way to offset similar efforts in red states. California voters Tuesday Proposition 50 approvedwhich would allow California to redraw boundaries in 10 California congressional districts, giving Democrats an advantage over Republicans in the midterm elections. This effort was made by Democrats specifically as a way to compensate for the gerrymandering of the Republican map in Texas.
republicans has reportedly made an updated offer Senate Democrats on Thursday as rank-and-file senators continue to negotiate how to end the ongoing shutdown.
Republicans now say they are willing to discuss rehiring federal workers laid off during the shutdown as part of a deal that would reopen the government, Politico reports. The deal being discussed reportedly includes a new continuing resolution to reopen the government, as well as a package of appropriations bills and a promise to hold a vote on extending expiring Obamacare subsidies.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.C.) confirmed to reporters Thursday that Republicans had made an offer to Democrats, but did not specify what it included.
Politico also reported Thursday afternoon that Thune told Republicans at a private dinner that he plans to hold a vote on Friday that he believes will serve as a path to ending the shutdown. Per Politician:
The plan, the people said, is to pick up the House-passed continuing resolution, which Democrats have repeatedly rejected, and then try to amend it with a new deadline, likely in January, as well as a negotiated package of three spending bills for the entire year.
It's unclear whether Thune's latest plan will have Democratic support, although Politico reported that Thune believes the deal has enough support to move forward. Senate GOP leadership is reportedly planning to keep senators in Washington for the weekend.
— Emine Yucel
Illinois plays chicken with Indiana
Illinois' Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Wednesday that the state's redistricting efforts depend on Indiana approving a new congressional map. NPR reported.
“We’re watching what Indiana is doing.” Pritzker said at the event on Wednesday. “We may have to respond to that. It's certainly something that people have looked at here and the legislature has looked at here. But we'll have to see what happens.”
He added that while he doesn't think redistricting is a good idea, President Trump has painted Democrats into a corner. Many blue state Democratic leaders now see redistricting efforts as a way to combat the Trump administration's ongoing pressure campaign to redraw congressional maps in red states across the country, as a way to ensure Republicans retain control of the U.S. House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections.
“We are looking at merging with different states,” he said. added. “We don't think that's a good idea. Redistricting across the country is not a good idea. But unfortunately, Donald Trump is trying to deceive. He thinks mid-decade redistricting is fine.”
Indiana Republican Gov. Mike Brown announced last month that there would be a special session on Nov. 3 to focus on redistricting. now convene in December.
California is the latest Democratic-led state to approve a redistricting measure as a way to offset similar efforts in red states. California voters Tuesday Proposition 50 approvedwhich would allow California to redraw boundaries in 10 California congressional districts, giving Democrats an advantage over Republicans in the midterm elections. This effort was made by Democrats specifically as a way to compensate for the gerrymandering of the Republican map in Texas.
We should expect these tensions to return after Tuesday served as a stark reminder of Trump's limited shelf life. If he can't attract voters when he's not on the ballot and he never will be again, then he's a lame duck whether he likes it or not. Senate Republicans, some decades his junior, see life in a post-Trump world. And they don't want to waste it between the desires of a rabid, punitive base and the desire to remain acceptable enough to win re-election.
— Kate Riga
GOP: Open up the government and we might end layoffs
republicans has reportedly made an updated offer Senate Democrats on Thursday as rank-and-file senators continue to negotiate how to end the ongoing shutdown.
Republicans now say they are willing to discuss rehiring federal workers laid off during the shutdown as part of a deal that would reopen the government, Politico reports. The deal being discussed reportedly includes a new continuing resolution to reopen the government, as well as a package of appropriations bills and a promise to hold a vote on extending expiring Obamacare subsidies.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.C.) confirmed to reporters Thursday that Republicans had made an offer to Democrats, but did not specify what it included.
Politico also reported Thursday afternoon that Thune told Republicans at a private dinner that he plans to hold a vote on Friday that he believes will serve as a path to ending the shutdown. Per Politician:
The plan, the people said, is to pick up the House-passed continuing resolution, which Democrats have repeatedly rejected, and then try to amend it with a new deadline, likely in January, as well as a negotiated package of three spending bills for the entire year.
It's unclear whether Thune's latest plan will have Democratic support, although Politico reported that Thune believes the deal has enough support to move forward. Senate GOP leadership is reportedly planning to keep senators in Washington for the weekend.
— Emine Yucel
Illinois plays chicken with Indiana
Illinois' Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Wednesday that the state's redistricting efforts depend on Indiana approving a new congressional map. NPR reported.
“We’re watching what Indiana is doing.” Pritzker said at the event on Wednesday. “We may have to respond to that. It's certainly something that people have looked at here and the legislature has looked at here. But we'll have to see what happens.”
He added that while he doesn't think redistricting is a good idea, President Trump has painted Democrats into a corner. Many blue state Democratic leaders now see redistricting efforts as a way to combat the Trump administration's ongoing pressure campaign to redraw congressional maps in red states across the country, as a way to ensure Republicans retain control of the U.S. House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections.
“We are looking at merging with different states,” he said. added. “We don't think that's a good idea. Redistricting across the country is not a good idea. But unfortunately, Donald Trump is trying to deceive. He thinks mid-decade redistricting is fine.”
Indiana Republican Gov. Mike Brown announced last month that there would be a special session on Nov. 3 to focus on redistricting. now convene in December.
California is the latest Democratic-led state to approve a redistricting measure as a way to offset similar efforts in red states. California voters Tuesday Proposition 50 approvedwhich would allow California to redraw boundaries in 10 California congressional districts, giving Democrats an advantage over Republicans in the midterm elections. This effort was made by Democrats specifically as a way to compensate for the gerrymandering of the Republican map in Texas.
But now the filibuster harms his short-term interests. He believes the shutdown hurt him in the election and could help the Democrats win (at least) the House and impeach him, so he wants it to be over (much more than he wants to stay loyal and remember to blame the Democrats). He doesn't care that this deal disproportionately benefits his party, that it could be a game-changer for Democrats if they could actually pass a minimum wage increase, abortion protections, redistricting reform, campaign finance fixes, voting rights bills, environmental protections, and on and on and on.
We should expect these tensions to return after Tuesday served as a stark reminder of Trump's limited shelf life. If he can't attract voters when he's not on the ballot and he never will be again, then he's a lame duck whether he likes it or not. Senate Republicans, some decades his junior, see life in a post-Trump world. And they don't want to waste it between the desires of a rabid, punitive base and the desire to remain acceptable enough to win re-election.
— Kate Riga
GOP: Open up the government and we might end layoffs
republicans has reportedly made an updated offer Senate Democrats on Thursday as rank-and-file senators continue to negotiate how to end the ongoing shutdown.
Republicans now say they are willing to discuss rehiring federal workers laid off during the shutdown as part of a deal that would reopen the government, Politico reports. The deal being discussed reportedly includes a new continuing resolution to reopen the government, as well as a package of appropriations bills and a promise to hold a vote on extending expiring Obamacare subsidies.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.C.) confirmed to reporters Thursday that Republicans had made an offer to Democrats, but did not specify what it included.
Politico also reported Thursday afternoon that Thune told Republicans at a private dinner that he plans to hold a vote on Friday that he believes will serve as a path to ending the shutdown. Per Politician:
The plan, the people said, is to pick up the House-passed continuing resolution, which Democrats have repeatedly rejected, and then try to amend it with a new deadline, likely in January, as well as a negotiated package of three spending bills for the entire year.
It's unclear whether Thune's latest plan will have Democratic support, although Politico reported that Thune believes the deal has enough support to move forward. Senate GOP leadership is reportedly planning to keep senators in Washington for the weekend.
— Emine Yucel
Illinois plays chicken with Indiana
Illinois' Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Wednesday that the state's redistricting efforts depend on Indiana approving a new congressional map. NPR reported.
“We’re watching what Indiana is doing.” Pritzker said at the event on Wednesday. “We may have to respond to that. It's certainly something that people have looked at here and the legislature has looked at here. But we'll have to see what happens.”
He added that while he doesn't think redistricting is a good idea, President Trump has painted Democrats into a corner. Many blue state Democratic leaders now see redistricting efforts as a way to combat the Trump administration's ongoing pressure campaign to redraw congressional maps in red states across the country, as a way to ensure Republicans retain control of the U.S. House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections.
“We are looking at merging with different states,” he said. added. “We don't think that's a good idea. Redistricting across the country is not a good idea. But unfortunately, Donald Trump is trying to deceive. He thinks mid-decade redistricting is fine.”
Indiana Republican Gov. Mike Brown announced last month that there would be a special session on Nov. 3 to focus on redistricting. now convene in December.
California is the latest Democratic-led state to approve a redistricting measure as a way to offset similar efforts in red states. California voters Tuesday Proposition 50 approvedwhich would allow California to redraw boundaries in 10 California congressional districts, giving Democrats an advantage over Republicans in the midterm elections. This effort was made by Democrats specifically as a way to compensate for the gerrymandering of the Republican map in Texas.
For some time, the filibuster did not bother him – he was accumulating more and more power in Congress, and the Republicans did not protest. He hardly bothered to use his triple advantage, preferring to use the executive branch and the right-wing judiciary.
But now the filibuster harms his short-term interests. He believes the shutdown hurt him in the election and could help the Democrats win (at least) the House and impeach him, so he wants it to be over (much more than he wants to stay loyal and remember to blame the Democrats). He doesn't care that this deal disproportionately benefits his party, that it could be a game-changer for Democrats if they could actually pass a minimum wage increase, abortion protections, redistricting reform, campaign finance fixes, voting rights bills, environmental protections, and on and on and on.
We should expect these tensions to return after Tuesday served as a stark reminder of Trump's limited shelf life. If he can't attract voters when he's not on the ballot and he never will be again, then he's a lame duck whether he likes it or not. Senate Republicans, some decades his junior, see life in a post-Trump world. And they don't want to waste it between the desires of a rabid, punitive base and the desire to remain acceptable enough to win re-election.
— Kate Riga
GOP: Open up the government and we might end layoffs
republicans has reportedly made an updated offer Senate Democrats on Thursday as rank-and-file senators continue to negotiate how to end the ongoing shutdown.
Republicans now say they are willing to discuss rehiring federal workers laid off during the shutdown as part of a deal that would reopen the government, Politico reports. The deal being discussed reportedly includes a new continuing resolution to reopen the government, as well as a package of appropriations bills and a promise to hold a vote on extending expiring Obamacare subsidies.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.C.) confirmed to reporters Thursday that Republicans had made an offer to Democrats, but did not specify what it included.
Politico also reported Thursday afternoon that Thune told Republicans at a private dinner that he plans to hold a vote on Friday that he believes will serve as a path to ending the shutdown. Per Politician:
The plan, the people said, is to pick up the House-passed continuing resolution, which Democrats have repeatedly rejected, and then try to amend it with a new deadline, likely in January, as well as a negotiated package of three spending bills for the entire year.
It's unclear whether Thune's latest plan will have Democratic support, although Politico reported that Thune believes the deal has enough support to move forward. Senate GOP leadership is reportedly planning to keep senators in Washington for the weekend.
— Emine Yucel
Illinois plays chicken with Indiana
Illinois' Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Wednesday that the state's redistricting efforts depend on Indiana approving a new congressional map. NPR reported.
“We’re watching what Indiana is doing.” Pritzker said at the event on Wednesday. “We may have to respond to that. It's certainly something that people have looked at here and the legislature has looked at here. But we'll have to see what happens.”
He added that while he doesn't think redistricting is a good idea, President Trump has painted Democrats into a corner. Many blue state Democratic leaders now see redistricting efforts as a way to combat the Trump administration's ongoing pressure campaign to redraw congressional maps in red states across the country, as a way to ensure Republicans retain control of the U.S. House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections.
“We are looking at merging with different states,” he said. added. “We don't think that's a good idea. Redistricting across the country is not a good idea. But unfortunately, Donald Trump is trying to deceive. He thinks mid-decade redistricting is fine.”
Indiana Republican Gov. Mike Brown announced last month that there would be a special session on Nov. 3 to focus on redistricting. now convene in December.
California is the latest Democratic-led state to approve a redistricting measure as a way to offset similar efforts in red states. California voters Tuesday Proposition 50 approvedwhich would allow California to redraw boundaries in 10 California congressional districts, giving Democrats an advantage over Republicans in the midterm elections. This effort was made by Democrats specifically as a way to compensate for the gerrymandering of the Republican map in Texas.
President Trump's incentives are completely different.
For some time, the filibuster did not bother him – he was accumulating more and more power in Congress, and the Republicans did not protest. He hardly bothered to use his triple advantage, preferring to use the executive branch and the right-wing judiciary.
But now the filibuster harms his short-term interests. He believes the shutdown hurt him in the election and could help the Democrats win (at least) the House and impeach him, so he wants it to be over (much more than he wants to stay loyal and remember to blame the Democrats). He doesn't care that this deal disproportionately benefits his party, that it could be a game-changer for Democrats if they could actually pass a minimum wage increase, abortion protections, redistricting reform, campaign finance fixes, voting rights bills, environmental protections, and on and on and on.
We should expect these tensions to return after Tuesday served as a stark reminder of Trump's limited shelf life. If he can't attract voters when he's not on the ballot and he never will be again, then he's a lame duck whether he likes it or not. Senate Republicans, some decades his junior, see life in a post-Trump world. And they don't want to waste it between the desires of a rabid, punitive base and the desire to remain acceptable enough to win re-election.
— Kate Riga
GOP: Open up the government and we might end layoffs
republicans has reportedly made an updated offer Senate Democrats on Thursday as rank-and-file senators continue to negotiate how to end the ongoing shutdown.
Republicans now say they are willing to discuss rehiring federal workers laid off during the shutdown as part of a deal that would reopen the government, Politico reports. The deal being discussed reportedly includes a new continuing resolution to reopen the government, as well as a package of appropriations bills and a promise to hold a vote on extending expiring Obamacare subsidies.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.C.) confirmed to reporters Thursday that Republicans had made an offer to Democrats, but did not specify what it included.
Politico also reported Thursday afternoon that Thune told Republicans at a private dinner that he plans to hold a vote on Friday that he believes will serve as a path to ending the shutdown. Per Politician:
The plan, the people said, is to pick up the House-passed continuing resolution, which Democrats have repeatedly rejected, and then try to amend it with a new deadline, likely in January, as well as a negotiated package of three spending bills for the entire year.
It's unclear whether Thune's latest plan will have Democratic support, although Politico reported that Thune believes the deal has enough support to move forward. Senate GOP leadership is reportedly planning to keep senators in Washington for the weekend.
— Emine Yucel
Illinois plays chicken with Indiana
Illinois' Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Wednesday that the state's redistricting efforts depend on Indiana approving a new congressional map. NPR reported.
“We’re watching what Indiana is doing.” Pritzker said at the event on Wednesday. “We may have to respond to that. It's certainly something that people have looked at here and the legislature has looked at here. But we'll have to see what happens.”
He added that while he doesn't think redistricting is a good idea, President Trump has painted Democrats into a corner. Many blue state Democratic leaders now see redistricting efforts as a way to combat the Trump administration's ongoing pressure campaign to redraw congressional maps in red states across the country, as a way to ensure Republicans retain control of the U.S. House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections.
“We are looking at merging with different states,” he said. added. “We don't think that's a good idea. Redistricting across the country is not a good idea. But unfortunately, Donald Trump is trying to deceive. He thinks mid-decade redistricting is fine.”
Indiana Republican Gov. Mike Brown announced last month that there would be a special session on Nov. 3 to focus on redistricting. now convene in December.
California is the latest Democratic-led state to approve a redistricting measure as a way to offset similar efforts in red states. California voters Tuesday Proposition 50 approvedwhich would allow California to redraw boundaries in 10 California congressional districts, giving Democrats an advantage over Republicans in the midterm elections. This effort was made by Democrats specifically as a way to compensate for the gerrymandering of the Republican map in Texas.
This caused disagreements between him and Senate Republicans. Senate Republicans are demonstrating a unique refusal to bow to his whims because they plan to stay in power longer than he will and know that the filibuster a.) doesn't stop them from doing what they want (they can still cut taxes, get judicial confirmations, and cut reconciliation benefits), b.) stops Democrats from doing what they want, and c.) stops them from doing what they don't want (banning abortion, ending mail-in voting, any a culture war master demanding red meat will backfire).
President Trump's incentives are completely different.
For some time, the filibuster did not bother him – he was accumulating more and more power in Congress, and the Republicans did not protest. He hardly bothered to use his triple advantage, preferring to use the executive branch and the right-wing judiciary.
But now the filibuster harms his short-term interests. He believes the shutdown hurt him in the election and could help the Democrats win (at least) the House and impeach him, so he wants it to be over (much more than he wants to stay loyal and remember to blame the Democrats). He doesn't care that this deal disproportionately benefits his party, that it could be a game-changer for Democrats if they could actually pass a minimum wage increase, abortion protections, redistricting reform, campaign finance fixes, voting rights bills, environmental protections, and on and on and on.
We should expect these tensions to return after Tuesday served as a stark reminder of Trump's limited shelf life. If he can't attract voters when he's not on the ballot and he never will be again, then he's a lame duck whether he likes it or not. Senate Republicans, some decades his junior, see life in a post-Trump world. And they don't want to waste it between the desires of a rabid, punitive base and the desire to remain acceptable enough to win re-election.
— Kate Riga
GOP: Open up the government and we might end layoffs
republicans has reportedly made an updated offer Senate Democrats on Thursday as rank-and-file senators continue to negotiate how to end the ongoing shutdown.
Republicans now say they are willing to discuss rehiring federal workers laid off during the shutdown as part of a deal that would reopen the government, Politico reports. The deal being discussed reportedly includes a new continuing resolution to reopen the government, as well as a package of appropriations bills and a promise to hold a vote on extending expiring Obamacare subsidies.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.C.) confirmed to reporters Thursday that Republicans had made an offer to Democrats, but did not specify what it included.
Politico also reported Thursday afternoon that Thune told Republicans at a private dinner that he plans to hold a vote on Friday that he believes will serve as a path to ending the shutdown. Per Politician:
The plan, the people said, is to pick up the House-passed continuing resolution, which Democrats have repeatedly rejected, and then try to amend it with a new deadline, likely in January, as well as a negotiated package of three spending bills for the entire year.
It's unclear whether Thune's latest plan will have Democratic support, although Politico reported that Thune believes the deal has enough support to move forward. Senate GOP leadership is reportedly planning to keep senators in Washington for the weekend.
— Emine Yucel
Illinois plays chicken with Indiana
Illinois' Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Wednesday that the state's redistricting efforts depend on Indiana approving a new congressional map. NPR reported.
“We’re watching what Indiana is doing.” Pritzker said at the event on Wednesday. “We may have to respond to that. It's certainly something that people have looked at here and the legislature has looked at here. But we'll have to see what happens.”
He added that while he doesn't think redistricting is a good idea, President Trump has painted Democrats into a corner. Many blue state Democratic leaders now see redistricting efforts as a way to combat the Trump administration's ongoing pressure campaign to redraw congressional maps in red states across the country, as a way to ensure Republicans retain control of the U.S. House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections.
“We are looking at merging with different states,” he said. added. “We don't think that's a good idea. Redistricting across the country is not a good idea. But unfortunately, Donald Trump is trying to deceive. He thinks mid-decade redistricting is fine.”
Indiana Republican Gov. Mike Brown announced last month that there would be a special session on Nov. 3 to focus on redistricting. now convene in December.
California is the latest Democratic-led state to approve a redistricting measure as a way to offset similar efforts in red states. California voters Tuesday Proposition 50 approvedwhich would allow California to redraw boundaries in 10 California congressional districts, giving Democrats an advantage over Republicans in the midterm elections. This effort was made by Democrats specifically as a way to compensate for the gerrymandering of the Republican map in Texas.
“END THE FILIBUSTER NOT JUST FOR CLOSURE, BUT FOR EVERYTHING ELSE,” he wrote.
This caused disagreements between him and Senate Republicans. Senate Republicans are demonstrating a unique refusal to bow to his whims because they plan to stay in power longer than he will and know that the filibuster a.) doesn't stop them from doing what they want (they can still cut taxes, get judicial confirmations, and cut reconciliation benefits), b.) stops Democrats from doing what they want, and c.) stops them from doing what they don't want (banning abortion, ending mail-in voting, any a culture war master demanding red meat will backfire).
President Trump's incentives are completely different.
For some time, the filibuster did not bother him – he was accumulating more and more power in Congress, and the Republicans did not protest. He hardly bothered to use his triple advantage, preferring to use the executive branch and the right-wing judiciary.
But now the filibuster harms his short-term interests. He believes the shutdown hurt him in the election and could help the Democrats win (at least) the House and impeach him, so he wants it to be over (much more than he wants to stay loyal and remember to blame the Democrats). He doesn't care that this deal disproportionately benefits his party, that it could be a game-changer for Democrats if they could actually pass a minimum wage increase, abortion protections, redistricting reform, campaign finance fixes, voting rights bills, environmental protections, and on and on and on.
We should expect these tensions to return after Tuesday served as a stark reminder of Trump's limited shelf life. If he can't attract voters when he's not on the ballot and he never will be again, then he's a lame duck whether he likes it or not. Senate Republicans, some decades his junior, see life in a post-Trump world. And they don't want to waste it between the desires of a rabid, punitive base and the desire to remain acceptable enough to win re-election.
— Kate Riga
GOP: Open up the government and we might end layoffs
republicans has reportedly made an updated offer Senate Democrats on Thursday as rank-and-file senators continue to negotiate how to end the ongoing shutdown.
Republicans now say they are willing to discuss rehiring federal workers laid off during the shutdown as part of a deal that would reopen the government, Politico reports. The deal being discussed reportedly includes a new continuing resolution to reopen the government, as well as a package of appropriations bills and a promise to hold a vote on extending expiring Obamacare subsidies.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.C.) confirmed to reporters Thursday that Republicans had made an offer to Democrats, but did not specify what it included.
Politico also reported Thursday afternoon that Thune told Republicans at a private dinner that he plans to hold a vote on Friday that he believes will serve as a path to ending the shutdown. Per Politician:
The plan, the people said, is to pick up the House-passed continuing resolution, which Democrats have repeatedly rejected, and then try to amend it with a new deadline, likely in January, as well as a negotiated package of three spending bills for the entire year.
It's unclear whether Thune's latest plan will have Democratic support, although Politico reported that Thune believes the deal has enough support to move forward. Senate GOP leadership is reportedly planning to keep senators in Washington for the weekend.
— Emine Yucel
Illinois plays chicken with Indiana
Illinois' Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Wednesday that the state's redistricting efforts depend on Indiana approving a new congressional map. NPR reported.
“We’re watching what Indiana is doing.” Pritzker said at the event on Wednesday. “We may have to respond to that. It's certainly something that people have looked at here and the legislature has looked at here. But we'll have to see what happens.”
He added that while he doesn't think redistricting is a good idea, President Trump has painted Democrats into a corner. Many blue state Democratic leaders now see redistricting efforts as a way to combat the Trump administration's ongoing pressure campaign to redraw congressional maps in red states across the country, as a way to ensure Republicans retain control of the U.S. House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections.
“We are looking at merging with different states,” he said. added. “We don't think that's a good idea. Redistricting across the country is not a good idea. But unfortunately, Donald Trump is trying to deceive. He thinks mid-decade redistricting is fine.”
Indiana Republican Gov. Mike Brown announced last month that there would be a special session on Nov. 3 to focus on redistricting. now convene in December.
California is the latest Democratic-led state to approve a redistricting measure as a way to offset similar efforts in red states. California voters Tuesday Proposition 50 approvedwhich would allow California to redraw boundaries in 10 California congressional districts, giving Democrats an advantage over Republicans in the midterm elections. This effort was made by Democrats specifically as a way to compensate for the gerrymandering of the Republican map in Texas.
“END THE FILIBUSTER NOT JUST FOR CLOSURE, BUT FOR EVERYTHING ELSE,” he wrote.
This caused disagreements between him and Senate Republicans. Senate Republicans are demonstrating a unique refusal to bow to his whims because they plan to stay in power longer than he will and know that the filibuster a.) doesn't stop them from doing what they want (they can still cut taxes, get judicial confirmations, and cut reconciliation benefits), b.) stops Democrats from doing what they want, and c.) stops them from doing what they don't want (banning abortion, ending mail-in voting, any a culture war master demanding red meat will backfire).
President Trump's incentives are completely different.
For some time, the filibuster did not bother him – he was accumulating more and more power in Congress, and the Republicans did not protest. He hardly bothered to use his triple advantage, preferring to use the executive branch and the right-wing judiciary.
But now the filibuster harms his short-term interests. He believes the shutdown hurt him in the election and could help the Democrats win (at least) the House and impeach him, so he wants it to be over (much more than he wants to stay loyal and remember to blame the Democrats). He doesn't care that this deal disproportionately benefits his party, that it could be a game-changer for Democrats if they could actually pass a minimum wage increase, abortion protections, redistricting reform, campaign finance fixes, voting rights bills, environmental protections, and on and on and on.
We should expect these tensions to return after Tuesday served as a stark reminder of Trump's limited shelf life. If he can't attract voters when he's not on the ballot and he never will be again, then he's a lame duck whether he likes it or not. Senate Republicans, some decades his junior, see life in a post-Trump world. And they don't want to waste it between the desires of a rabid, punitive base and the desire to remain acceptable enough to win re-election.
— Kate Riga
GOP: Open up the government and we might end layoffs
republicans has reportedly made an updated offer Senate Democrats on Thursday as rank-and-file senators continue to negotiate how to end the ongoing shutdown.
Republicans now say they are willing to discuss rehiring federal workers laid off during the shutdown as part of a deal that would reopen the government, Politico reports. The deal being discussed reportedly includes a new continuing resolution to reopen the government, as well as a package of appropriations bills and a promise to hold a vote on extending expiring Obamacare subsidies.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.C.) confirmed to reporters Thursday that Republicans had made an offer to Democrats, but did not specify what it included.
Politico also reported Thursday afternoon that Thune told Republicans at a private dinner that he plans to hold a vote on Friday that he believes will serve as a path to ending the shutdown. Per Politician:
The plan, the people said, is to pick up the House-passed continuing resolution, which Democrats have repeatedly rejected, and then try to amend it with a new deadline, likely in January, as well as a negotiated package of three spending bills for the entire year.
It's unclear whether Thune's latest plan will have Democratic support, although Politico reported that Thune believes the deal has enough support to move forward. Senate GOP leadership is reportedly planning to keep senators in Washington for the weekend.
— Emine Yucel
Illinois plays chicken with Indiana
Illinois' Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Wednesday that the state's redistricting efforts depend on Indiana approving a new congressional map. NPR reported.
“We’re watching what Indiana is doing.” Pritzker said at the event on Wednesday. “We may have to respond to that. It's certainly something that people have looked at here and the legislature has looked at here. But we'll have to see what happens.”
He added that while he doesn't think redistricting is a good idea, President Trump has painted Democrats into a corner. Many blue state Democratic leaders now see redistricting efforts as a way to combat the Trump administration's ongoing pressure campaign to redraw congressional maps in red states across the country, as a way to ensure Republicans retain control of the U.S. House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections.
“We are looking at merging with different states,” he said. added. “We don't think that's a good idea. Redistricting across the country is not a good idea. But unfortunately, Donald Trump is trying to deceive. He thinks mid-decade redistricting is fine.”
Indiana Republican Gov. Mike Brown announced last month that there would be a special session on Nov. 3 to focus on redistricting. now convene in December.
California is the latest Democratic-led state to approve a redistricting measure as a way to offset similar efforts in red states. California voters Tuesday Proposition 50 approvedwhich would allow California to redraw boundaries in 10 California congressional districts, giving Democrats an advantage over Republicans in the midterm elections. This effort was made by Democrats specifically as a way to compensate for the gerrymandering of the Republican map in Texas.
