‘We absolutely need him’: Some in GOP say it’s time for Trump to get involved in shutdown talks even as leaders rebuff idea

President Donald Trump shakes hands with U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) during a Rose Garden Club lunch at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., October 21, 2025. Kevin Lamarque/Reuters

Republican leaders have stuck to a straightforward position in their standoff with Democrats over government funding: No negotiations until the shutdown ends.

But as the impasse drags on, some rank-and-file Republicans are starting to wonder if it’s time to change tactics.

Several GOP lawmakers have suggested that President Donald Trump take a more direct role in resolving the shutdown in recent days, including potentially opening up negotiations with Democrats if it’s what’s required to end the standoff.

“If he gets involved, he can move it,” GOP Sen. Tommy Tuberville said of Trum