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.
Trump’s total disregard for the Impoundment Control Act, which basically requires the President to spend money that Congress has appropriated — and the acquiescence of Congressional Republicans to that executive overreach — is ample reason why Democrats have little reason to trust Republicans will do what they say.