Returning from Asia, President Trump renewed his demand to scrap the Senate filibuster to pass a stopgap spending bill and end the shutdown, urging Republicans to use the nuclear option. But Majority Leader John Thune, under pressure from the right, maintains his opposition, and several GOP senators resist changing rules. With Republicans holding 53 seats, three Democratic-aligned senators backing procedural votes and Rand Paul opposing, the party remains short of 60. Critics warn ending the 60-vote threshold could unleash progressive measures, including statehood for the District of Columbia.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.