On with Kara Swisher Sen. Smith on the Shutdown, Democrats’ Future, and Retiring Early
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Sep 29, 2025 
Sen. Tina Smith, a U.S. Senator from Minnesota and former lieutenant governor, opens up about her surprising decision to retire early after just one term. She tackles pressing issues, including the looming government shutdown and the alarming rise of political violence, marked by the tragic assassination of her colleague. Smith emphasizes the need for Democrats to adopt clearer strategies and highlights the importance of encouraging younger leaders to step up and reshape the party's future in challenging times.
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Authoritarian Shift Is Underway
- Tina Smith argues the U.S. is experiencing an ongoing authoritarian takeover rather than a temporary threat.
- She warns the second term would be more dangerous because skilled operatives would consolidate executive power.
Use Visible Civic Action
- Do organize visible public action like protests and grassroots outreach to push back against abuses of power.
- Smith urges people to use door-to-door organizing and coalition-building as democratic levers.
Refuse Blank-Check Spending Bills
- Do not give a blank check to the administration by voting for an unbipartisan spending bill.
- Smith refuses to vote for funding unless there are enforceable bipartisan commitments protecting constituents.