RUSH: A plan being hatched by Republican leaders in Congress shows how much things are changing.

Politico reports that House Speaker Paul Ryan and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell are working to fund the government into January instead of before Christmas. Now, the short-term spending bill will not include something Democrats say is a must: A DACA “fix,” which is basically amnesty for the so-called “Dreamers,” children of illegal immigrants who were protected by an Obama executive action.

Politico says Republicans are now daring Democrats to go ahead with their threat to shut down the government over illegal immigration.

For the last eight years, the very mention of a government shutdown made establishment Republicans quake in their boots and cower in the corner. Obama and Democrats ran roughshod over them because Democrats knew no matter how ridiculous their spending demands were, the Republicans would appease and surrender rather than risk being accused of shutting down the precious government.

But now, Republicans are reportedly ready to tell Democrats to pound sand. Now, where is this new courage coming from?

Well, earlier this week, President Trump tweeted that Democrats were threatening to shut down the government and hold the military hostage over illegal immigration. He showed that he’s ready and willing to put the blame where it belongs: squarely on the Democrats.

And now the Republicans have some courage. President is not afraid to fight and it appears to be contagious. Hopefully.