Higher Learning with Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Navigating the Shutdown With Rep. Maxwell Frost! Plus, the WNBA's Bad Leadership, and Ray J Vs. the Kardashians. | Higher Learning | The Ringer
Oct 3, 2025
Rep. Maxwell Frost, the first Gen Z member of Congress, shares insights on the looming government shutdown and the urgent issues of healthcare and housing policy. He boldly tackles misconceptions about Democratic strategies and highlights the real impact of the shutdown on Americans, including SNAP and Medicare. The conversation shifts gears to critiques of WNBA leadership after controversial remarks, and the drama between Ray J and the Kardashians unfolds, exploring defamation claims. Fun discussions also include creative ideas for Bad Bunny's Super Bowl performance.
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Shutdown Is About Healthcare And Wealth Transfer
- Maxwell Frost said the shutdown exists because Republicans would rather it happen than protect Affordable Care Act tax credits.
- He argued Trump prefers policies that help billionaires rather than preventing massive healthcare cost increases.
Fix The ACA Credits Immediately
- Extend the ACA tax credits immediately to prevent millions from facing 50–300% higher premiums.
- Negotiate one day in Congress to pass a short fix and avoid a prolonged shutdown's harms.
Immigrant Scapegoating Masks Elite Gains
- Frost noted federal law already bars undocumented immigrants from receiving federal healthcare benefits.
- He said attacks blaming immigrants distract from elites who are cutting assistance to help the rich.