The Shutdown Stalemate: Partisan Politics Gone Too Far

Michael takes a hard look at the ongoing government shutdown and asks the critical question: Who’s really to blame? Drawing on William F. Buckley’s famous “phone book” quote, Michael argues that Congress has become more dysfunctional than ever, with partisan politics and grandstanding replacing real compromise. With more than 700,000 federal workers furloughed and key programs in limbo, Michael explains how both parties are playing to their bases instead of governing for the country. This commentary is essential listening for anyone trying to understand the roots of the current Washington stalemate and what it says about the state of American democracy in 2025. Original air date 3 October 2025.