The Daily Punch Shutdown Day 3: How Thune sees the shutdown
Oct 3, 2025
On Day 3 of the government shutdown, the hosts delve into Senate Majority Leader John Thune’s tactics and the evolving Republican strategies. They explore the potential repercussions for the administration if premiums rise and the necessity of Trump’s involvement in a subsidy resolution. Tensions escalate as EMILY’s List supports a candidate in the Illinois Senate primary, sparking debate with the Congressional Black Caucus. Additionally, the looming NDAA deadline signals a chaotic legislative landscape ahead.
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Stalemated Senate Vote Cycle
- The Senate is repeatedly voting on stopgap funding and Democratic counteroffers with no deal yet in sight.
- Thune expects more failed votes and senators heading home before another try on Monday.
GOP Sees Internal Fatigue As Leverage
- Republicans see pressure building from rank-and-file fatigue rather than Senate Leader Schumer as the exit path from a shutdown.
- Thune and others expect internal GOP impatience to be the main lever to end the stalemate.
Administration Weaponizes Painful Shutdown Tactics
- The White House is relying on Russ Vought's plan to make the shutdown painful and reshape the bureaucracy.
- Anna Palmer warns that Trump's engagement would be necessary if Obamacare subsidies become the bargaining chip.