The Powers That Be: Daily Shutdown Endgame Scenarios & The G.O.P. Power Vacuum
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Oct 29, 2025 Leigh Ann Caldwell, a seasoned political reporter known for her insights into Capitol Hill, joins to dissect the impending government shutdown. She highlights key pressure points, including the looming Thanksgiving travel crunch and vulnerable federal programs like SNAP and military pay. Caldwell also explores how House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune have surrendered power to Trump, raising concerns over congressional relevance and the long-term impacts of this shift on both parties.
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Shutdown Pressure Points And Democratic Unity
- Democrats remain united that votes are required to fund the government and expect Republicans to come negotiate.
- Key pressure points are the second paychecks, SNAP benefits, and ACA subsidy notices around November 1st.
Use Calendar Pressure To Predict Off-Ramps
- Watch the calendar for likely off-ramps: end of this week/early next week, then Thanksgiving.
- Use travel disruptions around Thanksgiving as an organizing pressure point to force a resolution.
Thune's Calculation: Access Over Confrontation
- John Thune chose working with Trump over institutional opposition because it's easier and keeps access.
- His calculation reflects a Senate conference that is more pro-Trump and pressures leaders to accommodate him.