Democrats and Republicans working behind closed doors on Friday inched closer to a potential deal that would fund security along the U.S. border with Mexico and avoid a repeat of the recent government shutdown.

The Washington Post and New York Times reported the group of 17 lawmakers ... were nearing an agreement with President Trump that would give him up to $2 billion for barriers along the border with Mexico… far less than the $5.7 billion he has so far demanded.

After previously calling the negotiations a quote "waste of time"…President Trump on Thursday seemed more optimistic about a deal..

SOT TRUMP Trump says a border wall is needed to keep our drugs and illegal migrants.

Democrats view the wall as a waste of taxpayer money… The negotiators have until February 15th to work out a solution… Sources tell Reuters issues still to be resolved include Trump's demand for more beds in detention centers along the border - the Democrats want fewer -- and the push by Republicans to speed up the deportation of undocumented migrants.

On Thursday, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said she was giving Democrats on the committee the room to strike a fair deal…and hoped the White House would do the same with Republicans..… Pelosi: "I have asked the administration to be as non-interventionist as I am on that.

Just let them do their work / Hopefully we get some good news very soon." If no deal is reached, Trump has said he could shut down the government again…OR declare a national emergency to build his wall ..

An option drawing little enthusiasm from Republicans..

Who fear it would set a precedent that could backfire on them in a Democratic administration..

Despite the optimism …contingency plans were also in the works in case the talks break down … Lawmakers could agree to pass another short term funding bill giving them MORE TIME to strike a deal…WITHOUT risking another shutdown.