Letters from an American November 3, 2025
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Nov 4, 2025 In a deep dive into recent political controversies, the discussion highlights Trump's puzzling pardon of a crypto billionaire and its implications of potential pay-for-play arrangements. There's a critical look at Speaker Mike Johnson's inaction during a House shutdown, raising questions about leadership. The podcast also emphasizes the urgent issues surrounding SNAP funding and the threat to winter energy aid, alongside judicial resistance to aggressive immigration policies. Engaging insights into these topics make for a compelling analysis of current events.
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Pardon Without Knowledge
- Donald Trump admitted he did not know who he pardoned, framing the pardon as pro-crypto policy rather than due diligence.
- Heather Cox Richardson highlights this as a troubling sign about who is running the Oval Office.
Speaker's Willful Ignorance
- House Speaker Mike Johnson repeatedly pleaded ignorance about major developments, refusing to engage with questions about the president's actions.
- Richardson suggests the speaker's uninformed posture prevents the House from doing its job during the shutdown.
Return To Bipartisan Negotiation
- Negotiate across party lines to end the shutdown because negotiations have historically resolved funding standoffs.
- Richardson urges Republicans and Democrats to return to bargaining instead of refusing to negotiate.