3 Martini Lunch Kristol Clear Insanity
Oct 30, 2025
In a surprising twist, GOP poll numbers are on the rise, with independents showing newfound support despite the shutdown chaos. The duo dives into the Virginia governor's race, where candidates display stark differences, highlighting Winsome Sears' unexplained absence from effective messaging. Meanwhile, Bill Kristol's endorsement of a leftist candidate has sparked debate about the shifting loyalties among some conservatives, questioning whether it's a loss of principle or a strategic move for acceptance.
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Shutdown Didn't Tank GOP Brand
- Polling shows Republican brand in Congress rose slightly during the shutdown, contrary to usual patterns.
- Independents also moved toward Republicans, suggesting the GOP message resonated beyond the base.
Independents Shifted Toward Republicans
- Independents' approval of the Republican Congress rose by about eight points since pre-shutdown.
- That change suggests independents either reject the Democratic narrative or aren't paying close attention yet.
Use Filibuster Leverage To End Shutdown
- If Democrats want a quick resolution, they could end the filibuster to pass a continuing resolution.
- Republicans argue there's no electoral reason to concede while their brand is stable or improving.