In a surprising turn of events, Democrats have signaled their support for Speaker Mike Johnson's plan to avert a government shutdown at the end of the week.

This unexpected move significantly lowers the threat of a painful shutdown. Due in part to in part to Speaker Johnson's apparent willingness to work with both sides of the aisle.

Initially, House Democrats had rejected the idea of a two-step strategy to fund the government, but they are now considering supporting the Johnson strategy. This comes after a handful of conservative lawmakers threatened to vote against the stopgap funding bill, which means Johnson must rely on Democrats to get it through the chamber.

Even Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell have thrown their weight behind Johnson's plan, showing that it has bipartisan support.

The Senate plans to take up the bill on Tuesday.

One key factor in winning over Democrats is the fact that Johnson's proposal is a "clean" CR, with no spending cuts and no controversial policy riders. This significant concession to Democratic demands shows that Johnson is committed to finding a solution that works for all Americans.

Already, at least eight House conservatives have said they will vote no on Johnson’s plan, and many more could join that group. After Rep.-elect Gabe Amo, D-R.I., is sworn in Monday, Johnson can afford to lose only three Republicans on his funding bill.

At least one Democrat — Rep. Dean Phillips of Minnesota, who is running for president against Biden — told media outlets that he will vote for Johnson’s bill.

This is a remarkable reversal for Democrats, who just four days ago, were calling the plan "extreme" and "reckless." But now, they are singing a different tune, with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries saying they are carefully evaluating the proposal and discussing it with members.

The two-step approach would fund some government agencies until Jan. 19, while also providing funding for the Defense Department and other remaining parts of the government through Feb. 2. It's a smart strategy that allows for more time to reach a deal on spending cuts and contentious issues, such as aid for Israel and border security provisions.

But the true test for Johnson's plan will come when the House takes up the rule for the CR. This is where Speaker Johnson will need support from Democrats, as some conservative Republicans have already signaled their opposition to the plan.

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Despite these challenges, Johnson says he remains determined to keep the government open and functioning.

But Monday, President Joe Biden would not commit to veto Johnson’s laddered CR if it came to his desk.

“I’m not going to make a judgment on what I’d veto and what I’d sign. Let’s see what they come up with,” Biden told reporters.