Lawmakers Wednesday began discussions aimed at getting a bipartisan deal to avoid another partial government shutdown. At the first meeting of a conference committee, Senator Richard Shelby (R-Tuscaloosa), chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, called for including border security, including a wall or barrier. "Our border patrol professionals, those on the front lines, tell us that a comprehensive approach is necessary," Shelby told conferees. "An approach that includes technology, infrastructure, personnel, and physical barriers." Some Democrats insist that the wall is a non-starter. But Rep. Nita Lowey (D-N.Y.), who leads the House Appropriations Committee, said everything is on the table. President Trump tweeted: "If the committee ... is not discussing or contemplating a Wall or Physical Barrier, they are Wasting their time!