Senate Dems' riskier scenario ahead of possible government shutdown

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) has signaled his party is prepared to let the government shut down.

Why it matters: Even if it's a bargaining tactic, Schumer and Democrats have put Congress closer to an outcome he's repeatedly warned against.

By Thursday evening, Schumer and Senate GOP leader John Thune (R-S.D.) could have a handshake deal to allow amendment votes and speed up the process.

"Democrats had nothing to do with this bill. And we want an opportunity to get an amendment vote or two. So that's what we are insisting on to vote for cloture," Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.) told reporters on Wednesday.