As the federal government shutdown enters its fifth week, Democratic Senator Mark Warner of Virginia expressed hope that it will end this week following Donald Trump’s return from his Asia tour, emphasizing that any real solution requires the president’s personal presence at the negotiating table.
In an interview with CBS News, Warner avoided directly answering questions about how far Democrats are willing to compromise in the month-long funding crisis. However, he stressed that growing pressure on federal employees — including air traffic controllers — demands urgent action.
“This will not end until Trump returns,” Warner said, suggesting that the president’s absence abroad had stalled progress. “He’s back now. He needs to put America first and sit down with us.”
Warner Urges Trump to Act as Shutdown Deepens
Warner added that “Republicans can’t move without his approval,” criticizing what he described as the party’s dependency on Trump. He said the lack of presidential involvement has frozen negotiations, noting that “this crisis could be solved within an hour.”
He also pointed to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funding issue after a federal judge ordered the use of emergency funds to cover costs. “We’re waiting to see if the administration will appeal the ruling,” he said. “Distribute the funds to those in need — and let’s all get back to work.”
According to The Hill, the government shutdown has now entered its sixth week, amid sharp partisan divisions over spending priorities such as healthcare and food assistance. Trump has called for changing Senate rules to end the impasse, but Republicans rejected the idea, arguing that the 60-vote threshold remains essential.