Overview
- In a late‑night Truth Social post, President Trump pressed Republicans to use the 'nuclear option' to abolish the filibuster and pass funding with a simple majority.
- The filibuster requires 60 votes to advance most bills, and Republicans hold 53 seats, preventing them from moving their stopgap without Democratic support.
- Senate Majority Leader John Thune and several GOP senators reiterated opposition to ending the filibuster, citing institutional concerns and future risks.
- A few Republicans have floated limited exceptions for funding bills, while Democrats continue to block the GOP measure as they seek an extension of ACA subsidies and reversal of Medicaid cuts.
- Operational strain is widening with SNAP benefits at risk and air‑traffic staffing under pressure, and no immediate floor action is expected before the Senate reconvenes.