All Things with Kim Strassel Sen. John Kennedy on the Senate, Stupidity and Shutdowns
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Oct 7, 2025 Sen. John Kennedy, a Republican from Louisiana and author of 'How to Test Negative for Stupid,' shares his witty insights on politics. He discusses the current government shutdown, revealing the dynamics at play and the need for reforms in healthcare and Senate structure. Known for his humor, Kennedy contrasts today’s political climate with the Reagan era and reflects on candidness in Congress, notably about his fellow senator Lindsey Graham. His passionate advocacy for common sense shines through as he critiques the dysfunction in Washington.
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How Kennedy Crafts His Lines
- John Kennedy attributes his plainspoken wit to his small-town upbringing and a strong memory for clever turns of phrase.
- He prepares briefly before interviews and sometimes jots lines from books on his iPad to reuse later.
Attitude Over Bitterness
- Kennedy says attitude matters more than humor and that he refuses to hate colleagues despite strong disagreements.
- He believes clear, candid communication wins more than bitterness in D.C.
Lindsey Graham: Brilliant And Unpredictable
- Kennedy jokes about Lindsey Graham's unpredictability, mixing intellect with chaotic behavior at social events.
- He illustrates Graham's hawkishness with a quip about asking him to name a country he wouldn't bomb.
