Republicans eye shutdown breakthrough after Virginia elections

Republicans believe the elements are there for a shutdown breakthrough as soon as Wednesday, betting that Democrats will soften their healthcare demands after high-profile elections in Virginia and New Jersey on Tuesday.

Over the last week, bipartisan talks have picked up among appropriators interested in hammering out a larger spending deal once the government reopens. At the same time, Washington is facing mounting political pressure as funding runs dry for food stamps and travelers face major delays at airports around the country.