Today, Explained Should Democrats shut it down?
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Sep 15, 2025 
Andrew Prokop, Senior Correspondent at Vox, discusses the contentious debate within the Democratic Party over a potential government shutdown and its implications for executive power. Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen weighs in on calls for strategic candidate endorsements, including support for Zoran Mamdani. They delve into historical contexts, the risks of losing the filibuster, and the party's need to address Trump's authoritarian tendencies. The conversation highlights the political stakes and challenges ahead as Democrats navigate a heated electoral landscape.
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Why Democrats Consider A Shutdown
- Democrats can force a shutdown by using the filibuster to block funding bills.
- That tactic aims to turn a diffuse corruption crisis into an acute political confrontation.
Shutdown Could Trigger Filibuster End
- A sustained Democratic shutdown is unlikely to make Trump surrender or concede policy demands.
- Instead it would likely increase pressure on Republicans to eliminate the filibuster via the nuclear option.
Filibuster Debates Depend On Context
- Progressives view the filibuster as undemocratic because it blocks major policy changes they favor.
- But that argument must be reassessed given the specific authoritarian risks posed by this administration.