Shutdown Showdown | Ep. 458

Blame Game

The political blame game surrounding the government shutdown highlights strategic communications from both parties. Ben Shapiro points out that Chuck Schumer blamed Donald Trump for the shutdown, despite the fact that 90% of government functions continued as usual 1. The Democrats' messaging was inconsistent, claiming both the necessity of the shutdown for DACA and blaming Republicans for it 2. Shapiro notes the cleverness of the White House's response, which included an outgoing message blaming Democrats for the shutdown 2.

The White House did something clever. When you call the White House comment line, no one picks up the phone. No one picked up the phone before, but now they left an outgoing message saying, the reason we're not here is because Democrats shut down the government.

--- Ben Shapiro

This strategic messaging was mirrored by Mike Pence, who emphasized the impact on military pay 2.

   

Consequences

The government shutdown's immediate resolution left lingering questions about its long-term consequences. Ben Shapiro highlights that the shutdown ended with minimal impact, lasting only a few days and resulting in a short-term funding resolution 3. However, the potential for future shutdowns remains, as the deal only extends funding until February 8, with a promise for a vote on DACA 3. Shapiro suggests that the Republicans' internal divisions, particularly on immigration, could lead to further confusion and challenges 4.

What comes next is going to be questionable because, again, Mitch McConnell has offered a deal. So I'm going to talk about that deal in 1 second and what has to happen here, because now the onus is sort of on Trump.

--- Ben Shapiro

The shutdown's resolution did not address the underlying political tensions, leaving the door open for future conflicts 4.

   

DACA Impasse

The DACA negotiations remain a contentious issue, contributing significantly to the shutdown. Ben Shapiro discusses the political stalemate, noting that Luis Gutierrez suggested funding the border wall in exchange for protections for Dreamers, a proposal Shapiro criticizes 5. The impasse reflects broader challenges within the Republican Party, as Trump's immigration priorities clash with some party members' views 6. Shapiro warns that caving to Democratic demands could alienate Trump's base, emphasizing the need for Republicans to adhere to Trump's stated agenda 6.

The idea that Republicans are going to cave on anything, but they may not get a full border wall. They may not get an end to diversity visa lottery. The idea that they may not get an end to chain migration, it speaks to the fact that Trump may not have any serious principles.

--- Ben Shapiro

The ongoing debate over DACA and immigration policy continues to be a significant point of contention 6.