WASHINGTON (TVBS News) — In an unusual weekend session, U.S. senators convened to amend border security policies, aiming to unlock the stalemate over assistance plans for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan.
Democratic centrist Senator Joe Manchin expressed optimism on CNN's "State of the Union" on Sunday (Dec. 17), "I'm very encouraged. I'm very optimistic that they're moving in a very positive direction," he stated.
Manchin revealed that he is in contact with bipartisan negotiators and representatives from the White House. He noted their recognition of the severity of border issues and the necessity for repair.
In related news, independent Senator Kyrsten Sinema, Democrat Chris Murphy, Republican James Lankford, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, and other senior officials initially engaged in approximately two hours of discussions on Saturday to seek a compromise on border security policy revisions.
All the key participants involved in Saturday's talks reported progress, though details were withheld.
Lankford pointed out that staff continued to work throughout the day, with senators reconvening for further discussions on Saturday afternoon.
The crafting of the bill's complex and comprehensive text requires time for individual senators or entire parties to deliberate before proceeding to the voting process, the report stated.