The Daily Beast Podcast Why Dems Finally Have Leverage Over Trump: Wolff
Sep 26, 2025
Michael Wolff, an insightful author known for his sharp commentary on the Trump era, joins the discussion with Joanna Coles. They delve into the imminent threat of a government shutdown and dissect how Democrats now hold the leverage against Trump's disruptive strategies. Wolff reflects on past government shutdowns, analyzes Chuck Schumer's leadership, and questions whether public anger can mobilize effective resistance. He also explores the surprising effectiveness of Trump in dismantling norms and urges Democrats to seize this moment for opposition.
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Democracy’s Foundations Are Under Attack
- Michael Wolff argues America's basic assumptions and governing institutions are being actively dismantled under Trump.
- He warns that without someone to express and oppose this, democratic norms will rapidly erode.
Shutdown Is A Rare Leverage Point
- Wolff outlines the immediate leverage point: the looming government shutdown gives Democrats rare control over funding.
- He says this moment could be used to rally resistance if Democrats frame it as defending democratic institutions.
Lewinsky Shutdown Gave Unusual Access
- Wolff recounts the Monica Lewinsky-era shutdown where interns performed senior aides' tasks and gained unusual access.
- He uses this to illustrate unexpected consequences government shutdowns can produce.
