Republican leaders have stuck to a straightforward position in their standoff with Democrats over government funding: No negotiations until the shutdown ends.
But as the impasse drags on, some rank-and-file Republicans are starting to wonder if it’s time to change tactics.
Several GOP lawmakers have suggested that Donald Trump take a more direct role in resolving the shutdown in recent days, including potentially opening up negotiations with Democrats if it’s what’s required to end the standoff.


“Just give up your only leverage and we’ll talk about what you want. Pinky promise.”
Which is exactly what they said last spring, and then crickets. Fool me once …
Well, it worked with Hamas