In this episode of Passing Judgment, host Jessica Levinson is joined by Politico’s Nicholas Wu to break down the causes and consequences of the ongoing government shutdown. They discuss how partisan divides, failed budget talks, and the Senate filibuster have led to a halt in government services and potential spikes in healthcare costs. Nicholas shares what this means for everyday Americans, the political strategies on both sides, and why the shutdown could last for weeks. Tune in for a clear explanation of how we got here, what’s happening now, and what may come next on Capitol Hill.

Here are three key takeaways you don't want to miss:

1. How the Government Shutdown Happened: Nicholas Wu lays out the basic process of government funding through appropriations bills in Congress. He explains that both the House and Senate Appropriations Committees are supposed to agree on funding for each agency by September 30th. This year, they failed to come to an agreement, and attempts at a stopgap measure (a continuing resolution) fell through, triggering the shutdown.

2. Partisan Gridlock & Narrow Legislative Majorities: A recurring theme is the impact of narrow majorities in Congress and the difficulties that creates for reaching agreements. Wu highlights that with such close margins, especially in the Senate due to the filibuster rule, bipartisan cooperation is necessary but often lacking. The lack of communication between parties and between Congress and the White House is also emphasized as fueling the stalemate.

3. Impact of the Shutdown on Everyday Americans: The conversation shifts to what the shutdown actually means for federal services and the public. Wu notes that the effect varies depending on where people interact with the federal government. Essential services (like air traffic control) keep running, but might do so without pay, while some non-essential services are halted, affecting federal workers and potentially local economies.

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