As the government faces a potential shutdown, Senate Majority Leader John Thune insists there is only one way out of the crisis, urging Democrats to dial back their demands. Thune accuses Democrats of holding the federal government hostage and claims they have lost all rationale in their opposition to Trump. During a press conference, he emphasized that a resolution could be reached if Democrats are willing to negotiate in good faith. Thune also pointed out that the shutdown can still be avoided, suggesting the Senate will work over the weekend if necessary. Moderate Democrats are reportedly at the center of a pressure campaign amid the standoff, while Thune expresses hope that some may support a Republican funding bill to reopen the government.