So why is this such a big deal? Does this run out the clock on reconciliation so congress has to work together?
Basically if they had extended by 18 months they could of avoided any chance of the Federal Government going bankrupt prior to the 2018 election. Now if it does go bankrupt they would have that on their heads (being the sole party in power) as the majority of them ran for re-election.
It's a non-win scenario. No way that they can keep their jobs and let that happen. So now Schumer/Pelosi are going to force them to vote on other issues (DACA) prior to not shutting the government down.
This works for Trump in two ways. If the rumors are true and he didn't understand DACA this let's him work it out with the Dems to pass it long term (his first piece of big time Legislation). It also opens the doors to future Bi Partisan deals which Trump might need if he is going to accomplish anything outside of EO's (which can be reversed the day after he leaves) since it's clear the Republicans even with the majority can't pass shit.
I hate Trump...... but this is the smartest political thing he's done yet. The old sonoabitch might finally be learning.