Political Buzz: Both parties fear another government shutdown

Both Republicans and Democrats on Capitol Hill want to avoid a second government shutdown that could haunt them in the 2014 midterm elections, and they are racing to reach a budget deal that would avoid it before Congress adjourns for Christmas.

The parties have been here before. But this time, members on both sides appear motivated to avoid what would be the second shuttering of the federal government since October, say House and Senate negotiators. Congress has until Jan. 15 to strike a deal, although lawmakers could pass a stopgap measure to extend the bargaining period, a plan now under consideration.