The Brian Lehrer Show Thursday Morning Politics: Government Shutdown Day 2
Oct 2, 2025
Nicholas Wu, a congressional reporter for Politico, dives into the complexities behind the federal government shutdown. He discusses the factors leading to stalled funding processes and the implications for federal agencies. Wu highlights the delicate balance of public opinion and political strategy, examining how both parties aim to navigate the shutdown. Listeners also share their frustrations, and Wu analyzes the shift in Hakeem Jeffries' leadership style as he takes a bolder, more urgent stance. Tune in for insights on the political maneuvering at play.
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How The Funding Process Broke Down
- Congress failed to pass individual appropriations, so a stopgap continuing resolution became the fallback.
- Republicans want fixes outside the funding bill, complicating bipartisan agreement.
Shutdown Likely To Linger
- Washington insiders expect the shutdown could drag on because neither side is negotiating now.
- Both parties are betting public opinion will force concessions rather than private deals.
Uneven Agency Responses And Layoff Threats
- Agencies are deciding who is essential and who is furloughed, creating uneven closures.
- The looming threat of mass layoffs could widen the shutdown's local economic impact.