PUMP Newsletter

Government Shutdown Enters Third Week as Republicans Consider Nuclear Option

The federal government shutdown, now in its third week, has furloughed over 2 million workers and disrupted services nationwide. Congress faces pressure to resolve the impasse over spending cuts and border security funding. And the republicans in the House are discussing a rules change to pass a funding bill without Democratic support, potentially ending the standoff.

Meanwhile, democrats accuse the Trump administration of using the shutdown to force concessions on immigration policy. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer called it "extortion" in a floor speech on October 25. GOP leaders, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, met on October 26 to weigh the nuclear option, which could alter long-term legislative procedures. Critics warn it risks further polarization ahead of 2026 midterms. But still a resolution remains uncertain, with Trump's veto threats complicating talks.

Kamala Harris Is Not Yet Done

Former Vice President Kamala Harris indicated openness to a 2028 presidential run during a BBC interview, stating,

She described the decision as "possible," citing ongoing Democratic efforts to counter the Trump administration's policies on reproductive rights and climate change. Harris's comments follow her 2024 election loss.

Her favorability among Democrats has risen to 48% in recent polls, driven by criticism of executive actions like expanded travel bans. She has begun outreach to donors, raising $50 million through exploratory committees tied to tech industry supporters. Potential rivals include Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman. Harris emphasized rebuilding the party's multiracial coalition, referencing "No Kings" protests against perceived authoritarian measures. Off-year elections in New Jersey and Virginia next month will test Democratic momentum.

New Book Details Trump's January 6 Call to Pence

A forthcoming book reveals that President Trump told Vice President Mike Pence "you'll go down as a wimp" during a January 6, 2021, phone call urging him to block election certification. The account, based on White House logs and eyewitnesses, appears in Wimp: The Pence Betrayal, set for release next month. The call occurred at 2:24 p.m. as rioters stormed the Capitol. Pence, who received the JFK Profile in Courage Award this year for upholding the Electoral Count Act, has not commented.

The disclosure renews scrutiny of Trump's role in the events that resulted in five deaths and ongoing legal probes. In his second term, Trump has appointed 2020 election skeptics to key roles, raising concerns about 2028 safeguards. Democrats plan to use the book in midterm advertising. A CNN poll shows 62% of independents still regard January 6 as a threat to democracy.

Gavin Newsom Confirms Exploration of 2028 Presidential Campaign

California's golden boy, Gov. Gavin Newsom, shattered months of speculation by confirming he's "seriously considering" a 2028 presidential run. In a Sacramento news conference, he highlighted his state's economic recovery and policy wins on housing and clean energy as models for national leadership.

Newsom's approval rating stands at 55%, bolstered by a state budget surplus and reductions in homelessness. His "Future Forward" PAC has already collected $20 million from donors in entertainment and technology sectors. He positioned himself as a moderate Democrat, noting vetoes of expansive proposals like single-payer healthcare to appeal beyond coastal states.

Early polls show Newsom leading Harris by four points in a hypothetical primary, though he trails in Midwest simulations. Republicans view him as a strong opponent, recalling his 2023 debate performance against Ron DeSantis.

Former Officials Warn of Authoritarian Shift Under Trump

A group of ex-intelligence leaders, including former CIA Director John Brennan, issued an open letter on October 24 warning that the U.S. is on a path to authoritarianism. They cited over 1,200 civil service dismissals, loyalty tests in federal hiring, and punitive trade policies as evidence of a "regime of retribution and reward."

The letter references actions like the detention of British journalist Sami Hamdi by ICE following criticism of Israel; far-right activist Laura Loomer claimed credit. It also notes a reversed plan to deploy troops to San Francisco amid local opposition. "No Kings" protests have drawn over 100,000 participants weekly, protesting these moves.

The Brennan-led Democracy Defense Alliance calls for congressional protections on whistleblowers and elections. With a shutdown stalling legislation, implementation faces hurdles.

That’s all for today, thanks for reading.

We’ll see you tomorrow!

— The PUMP Team