Bipartisan discussions are picking up momentum this week as lawmakers face building pressure to end the partial government shutdown ahead of critical deadlines for food stamps and health care, senators said Wednesday.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., said there’s been an increase in conversations among rank-and-file senators to reopen the government, though he indicated talks at the leadership level remain stalled.

“It’s ticked up significantly, and hopefully that’ll be a precursor of things to come,” he said, adding he’s hopeful “something here very soon will be fruitful.”

Members of both parties have reported seeing increased bipartisan talks to try to break the monthlong logjam, but they’re not holding their breath just yet for a compromise.

“This week is different than la

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