LISA MASCARO and MARY CLARE JALONICK.

Signs of a potential end to the government shutdown are intensifying with behind-the-scenes talks. This comes as the federal closure, now in its 35th day, is on track to become the longest ever disrupting the lives of millions of Americans. Senators from both parties are quietly negotiating the contours of an emerging deal to reopen the government and resolve the stalemate over health care funds for insurance subsidies. President Donald Trump has largely been absent, though he threatened Tuesday no more SNAP food aid unless the government reopens, which could defy court orders to release the funds. Tuesday’s elections across the U.S. provide an inflection point to bring an end to the shutdown.