The Brian Lehrer Show As Goes New Jersey?
Oct 3, 2025
Russell Berman, a staff writer at The Atlantic focused on Congress and national politics, delves into the implications of the federal government shutdown and its effects on New Jersey's pivotal governor's race. He discusses how past Democratic decisions led to the shutdown, the administration's use of funding cuts as political leverage, and the impact on local communities. Berman also highlights New Jersey's shift in political dynamics, exploring how national issues, including Trump's influence, shape the campaign strategies of candidates.
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Shutdown Was Largely Predictable
- Russell Berman says the shutdown was highly foreseeable after Democrats surrendered the March spending fight.
- That earlier concession set dynamics that made the October shutdown almost inevitable.
Funding Moves as Political Punishment
- Berman argues the administration is punishing Democratic states by withholding infrastructure and clean-energy funding.
- He frames this as part of a broader drive to consolidate executive power during the shutdown.
Challenge Funding Through Courts, Not Withholding
- Berman recommends states and cities are more likely to challenge funding decisions in court than withhold state taxes.
- He warns fiscal retaliation would escalate conflict with the federal government.