Thune: Shutdown Is ‘Stupid,’ Talks With Schumer Won’t Accomplish Much

(Washington, DC) — Senate Majority Leader John Thune calls the government shutdown “stupid.” He told NBC News Democrats have a chance to re-open the government if they join Republicans Friday and vote for a clean, short-term bill. The South Dakota Republican also said negotiating with Minority Leader Chuck Schumer is not “going to accomplish a lot.” The shutdown began Wednesday when funding for the federal government ran out. Democrats say there won’t be a deal unless expiring healthcare subsides are extended.