Looking for the Exit Ramp
Author: Greg Valliere
October 31, 2025
With Donald Trump back in town after a successful trip to Asia, leaders of both parties have expressed optimism that a budget deal is imminent.
Not so fast.
Trump threw a hand grenade into the talks last night, insisting that Republicans consider passing the “nuclear option” — the abolition of the Senate’s filibuster power.
Republicans hate the idea — it would allow the Senate to pass bills with 50 votes, not 60. This eventually could be used against the GOP, party leaders fear.
But Trump has enormous clout (despite mediocre polls) and his last-minute proposal could delay passage by another few days.
This new twist pushes back the timetable. A final deal is very unlikely until after a handful of elections next Tuesday. Leaders of both parties have authorized their rank-and-file to negotiate next week.
Even if there’s a deal by a week from now, it will take several days more to re-open the government.
So this appalling spectacle will drag on as the U.S. Thanksgiving approaches, with Congress looking desperately at a “kick the can” option that would push this mess into 2026.
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