Democracy Now! Audio Democracy Now! 2025-10-08 Wednesday
9 snips
Oct 8, 2025 
Ro Khanna, a Democratic U.S. Representative from California, discusses the looming government shutdown and the urgency of releasing Jeffrey Epstein's files. Adelita Grijalva, Congressmember-elect from Arizona, shares her challenges with being unsworn and her determination to push for the Epstein file release. David Kleon examines the dangers of media consolidation, particularly under the Ellison family, and explores the implications of Barry Weiss's appointment at CBS News, raising concerns about journalistic integrity and public representation.
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Shutdown Driven By Political Calculations
- Republicans control all branches yet refuse simple votes to keep government open, showing political priorities over operations.
- Ro Khanna argues the shutdown is driven by refusal to address issues like health-care tax credits and the Epstein files.
Demand Immediate Back Pay For Furloughed Workers
- Protect furloughed workers' pay by insisting Congress honor existing laws and push for immediate funding votes.
- Ro Khanna urges holding Republican leadership accountable for refusing to call sessions that would secure pay and services.
Swearing-In Delayed To Block Epstein Petition
- Speaker Mike Johnson is delaying swearing in Adelita Grijalva, which Ro Khanna links to blocking a pivotal 218th signature on a discharge petition.
- The maneuver prevents a forcing vote that could release more Justice Department files on Jeffrey Epstein.