This is a really big deal, and we certainly discussed it fully when shutdowns and shutdown threats were used as legislative maneuvers during the previous administration.

Perhaps that may be it. We have become immunized to concern about this, just as other previously unthinkable tactics have been employed so frequently as legislative strategy: delaying even the consideration of Presidential judicial appointments until more favorable political conditions materialize, failing to approve (or even discuss) Presidential appointments to agencies otherwise legitimately authorized in Congress, even obstruction to completely bipartisan actions merely to hamstring and embarrass executive initiatives. These are actions carried out, not for any valid or even ideological reason, but proudly proclaimed merely to prevent a popularly elected President “from getting a second term”.

The unthinkable and intolerable has now become acceptable, even expected. This time its Democrats, not Republicans, who are being accused of forcing a government shutdown to attain legislative compromises anathema to their opponents.

But no, this time its not quite the same, is it? This time one party has full control of both houses of Congress, as well as the Presidency and even the courts. If we have a government shutdown, its not the Democrats’ fault, and its not about DACA or any other legislative riders, compromises or negotiations–and don’t let them get away with trying to convince you it is. Its just more Republican obstruction, blackmail and hostage taking in order to force their corporate agenda down the throats of the American people.

This one is all on the GOP. So bring it on. Shut it down.