Balance of Power Record Government Shutdown Ends as Trump Signs Spending Bill
Nov 13, 2025
Democratic Congressman Brad Sherman of California shares insights on the recent government shutdown, which lasted 43 days, and the implications of its end. He discusses key priorities like restoring ACA subsidies, advocating for Medicare for All, and the pressing need to regulate drug prices. Sherman also addresses the risk of another shutdown looming in January, while navigating the intricate balance between long-term healthcare solutions and immediate needs. The conversation touches on the procedural hurdles in releasing Epstein documents, adding to the political complexity.
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No Clear Winner From The Shutdown
- The shutdown produced no clear winner; many groups lost, especially federal workers and benefit recipients.
- Republicans emerged politically stronger because they faced few concessions and controlled the narrative.
Plan For Delayed Restarts
- Expect a week for travel and SNAP backlogs to normalize after reopening and plan accordingly.
- Federal employees should prepare for staggered paychecks and higher withholding that may reduce immediate take-home pay.
Healthcare Fight Is Unresolved
- The next fight centers on healthcare subsidies and competing visions rather than a settled plan.
- Trump proposes direct payments to people while Democrats push subsidy extensions or broader reforms.