Summary
In Washington, Republican leaders are urging Democrats to help reopen the U.S. government amid a shutdown. This represents a change in roles, as Republicans previously pushed for shutdowns to meet their policy goals. Now, Democrats find themselves trying to negotiate leverage under President Donald Trump's administration.
Key Facts
- The U.S. government is currently experiencing a shutdown.
- Republican leaders are now calling on Democrats to reopen the government.
- In the past, Republicans often caused shutdowns to enforce their policy demands.
- President Trump has significant control over the Republican Party's budget decisions.
- Democrats are using the funding fight to try to gain influence in Trump's term.
- Continuing resolutions are short-term spending measures to keep the government running temporarily.
- Senator Rand Paul is the only Republican opposing the current short-term funding proposal.
- Some conservative leaders have shifted their views and now want the government to reopen.
