“The filibuster has traditionally been used as a very important safeguard,” Johnson said, noting that his own opinion is “not relevant” given it is a Senate-only issue.

President Donald Trump is calling on the Senate to scrap the filibuster and reopen the government after a monthlong shutdown, breaking with majority Republicans who have long opposed such a move.

"It is now time for the Republicans to play their "TRUMP CARD," and go for what is called the Nuclear Option — Get rid of the Filibuster, and get rid of it, NOW," Trump wrote on social media.