Record-breaking government shutdown enters day 37 as Senate Republicans propose new funding plan. Bipartisan lawmakers seek compromise amid growing concerns over federal workers.

Major airlines say that most passengers whose flights are canceled, and many who choose not to fly, will be eligible for refunds and no-fee rebookings.

“Democrats have looked pretty weak for most of this year and, over the last month, we have shown strength for the first time,” Senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut told us. Tuesday’s results “are proof that people like it when Democrats stand up for what they believe in.”

Major airlines say they are planning to cancel hundreds of flights on Friday -- out of thousands of daily flights -- as the FAA is set to begin limiting flight capacity.

Flight cancellations are accelerating as U.S. airlines comply with a government order to cut flights because of the shutdown.

Two days after Democrats saw resounding election victories in multiple states, the debate inside their own ranks over the government shutdown has only intensified, pitting progressives determined to hold the line against moderates eyeing a potential off-ramp.

With talks to reopen the government intensifying, Senate Majority Leader John Thune on Thursday expressed determination to move ahead with a new bipartisan package of funding bills, a renewed effort to win over enough Democrats and end the shutdown that is now in its 37th day.

Senate Republicans are moving to try to end the government shutdown by preparing a new bipartisan package of funding bills and daring Democrats to vote for it.