Trump urges end to filibuster as shutdown reaches Day 36; Cornyn ‘open to changes,’ Cruz unavailable

HOUSTON – President Donald Trump on Day 36 of the federal government shutdown pressed Republican senators to eliminate the Senate filibuster, arguing it is the only way to reopen the government and pass legislation.

“It’s time for Republicans to do what they have to do, and that’s terminate the filibuster… We won’t pass any legislation otherwise," Trump said in remarks Tuesday. He later added, “We have to get the country open… It’s time.”

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KPRC 2 contacted Texas’ U.S. senators on Tuesday. Sen. Ted Cruz was not available. Sen. John Cornyn, in a statement, said: “Schumer, if he persists in the shutdown, he’s going to force the issue, and we can’t tolerate this endless, perpetual threat of shutdowns and refusals to go to appropriations bills… I’m open to changes.”

Trump’s push followed Democratic victories in key state-level races nationwide. Meanwhile, Texans affected by the shutdown—including families relying on SNAP—continue to face uncertainty as negotiations in Washington remain stalled.