On this episode: Congress faces another high-stakes deadline as the fiscal year draws to a close, and divisions over how to fund the government are coming to a head. Senate and House leaders are weighing their options as Democrats insist on health care provisions and other amendments, Republicans navigate internal disagreements, and President Trump’s influence continues to shape the standoff.  

Burgess Everett, Congressional Bureau Chief for Semafor, joins the conversation to explain the shifting power dynamics between the House and Senate, how past shutdowns provide context for the current standoff, and what role party leaders like Mike Johnson and Chuck Schumer play in navigating these negotiations. The discussion explores the practical challenges of passing a continuing resolution, the vibes in Congress following Charlie Kirk’s assassination, the political risks of a shutdown, and how the outcome could influence both parties heading into the next election cycle.

• Read Burgess’ reporting: https://www.semafor.com/author/burgess-everett 

• Here’s what happens when the government shuts down: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xmshB6WbQO8 

• Learn more about the last government shutdown: https://ballotpedia.org/116th_United_States_Congress#Noteworthy_events 

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*On The Ballot is a conversational podcast featuring interviews with guests across the political spectrum. The views and opinions expressed by them are solely their own and are not representative of the views of the host or Ballotpedia as a whole.