The U.S. does not give concessions to hostage takers.

The US has a longstanding commitment to make no concessions to individuals or groups holding U.S. nationals hostage. This policy protects U.S. nationals and strengthens national security by removing a key incentive for hostage-takers to target U.S. nationals and by helping to deny terrorists and other malicious actors the resources they need to conduct attacks against the United States, its nationals, its allies, and its interests.

Trump and McConnell are holding federal workers hostage in an attempt to force a concession from Democrats.
Democrats would have to violate official US policy in order to do so.

FREE THE HOSTAGES!!!!!