An individual had been diligently preparing NCAA Tournament forecasts in anticipation of Selection Sunday. During this period, they noted the ongoing situation in the Senate, where Republicans were attempting to secure votes for a budget resolution to prevent a government shutdown, which was looming at midnight. The House had passed the bill on Tuesday, predominantly along party lines. However, due to the possibility of a filibuster in the Senate, Democratic support was necessary for its passage. Specifically, at least eight Democratic votes were required since Republican Senator Rand Paul had announced his intention to vote against it. As they were engaged in writing, these developments unfolded.