Rich Lowry

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer faced immediate political fallout and sharp criticism from both sides after the government shutdown came to an end without securing key legislative concessions. Rich breaks down how Schumer led Senate Democrats into a high-stakes standoff to appease the progressive base's demand for confrontation, only to cave without gaining meaningful leverage or policy victories. Unpacking the flawed strategy that left progressive activists furious at the retreat while moderate voters saw the shutdown as pointless and destructive, Rich explains why Schumer's lack of an exit plan created a political disaster of his own making that eroded his standing within his party. Watch Rich’s full breakdown, leave your reaction below, and subscribe to National Review!