Stakes Rise as Shutdown Drama Nears Funding Cliffs

WASHINGTON—Thousands of flights could be delayed. Tens of millions of Americans are set to lose food stamps. And a possible spike in health care premiums is on the horizon. Almost 30 days into the government shutdown, serious consequences are looming into view, potentially motivating lawmakers to end the shutdown. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) told reporters on Oct. 29 that bipartisan talks have “ticked up significantly,” emphasizing conversations with rank-and-file Democrats. That would be a change of pace. For almost a month, lawmakers from both parties in the upper chamber have traded blame for the shutdown. Republicans, joined by some Democrats, have sought to pass a continuing resolution that would effectively maintain funding at current levels....