The Beat Goes On
Author: Greg Valliere
September 17, 2025
The bitter rivalries between both political parties have shown no signs of abating, as a government shutdown looms within two weeks.
Even a political murder failed to stop the name-calling in the Senate as FBI Director Kash Patel called opponents “buffoons.”
As usual, a “kick the can” strategy is emerging — keeping the government open through mid-October, although that target could slow just ahead of the holidays.
What makes this budget fight unique is the adamant refusal of Democrats to cut a deal, since the last compromise infuriated the party’s base. And the Republicans, still reeling from Charlie Kirk’s death, won’t give much ground, if any.
The focal point will be health care, with Democrats resisting any further cuts in the Affordable Care Act.
Another expensive issue could be the growing price tag to pay for the conflict in Venezuela, Gaza, Ukraine, etc. Finally — an issue that both parties can agree on more spending for defense.
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