How John Thune Sees the Shutdown Ending

Senate Majority Leader John Thune laid out a path to end the government shutdown, saying he is willing to discuss the shape of future health care negotiations if a “critical mass” of Democrats say they are willing to support a House-passed funding bill in return, Politico reports.

Said Thune: “I keep telling them: When they have eight or 10 — preferably 10, or more — when they have a critical mass, let me know if there’s a conversation they want to have.”

“He insisted he would not negotiate on the substance of an extension while the government is closed.”