Tillerson on Shutdown: 'We're Ready if That's What Happens'

Secretary of State Rex Tillerson reportedly said his department is prepared for a government shutdown — but is hopeful lawmakers will reach a deal ahead of Friday's midnight deadline.

Associated Press reporter Josh Lederman tweeted Thursday:

CBS News reporter Kylie Atwood tweeted out the same quote:

Earlier Thursday, State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert told reporters the agency was developing contingency plans in case there's no government spending bill to avert a shutdown, The Hill reported.

"We will be prepared for all contingencies, I want to make that clear, including the possibility of a lapse," Nauert said, the outlet reported.

The last time the government shut down, in 2013, passport offices stayed open because passport and consular services are funded by fee revenue, and "pay for themselves," former State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said, The Hill reported.

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