From Washington politics to Main Street impacts, this episode dives deep into the truth behind the headlines — and what America can expect if the government shutdown drags on

Guest: Congressman Pat Harrigan (North Carolina’s 10th District)

Topic: Could This Be a Long Government Shutdown? What Happens Next for the American Economy? ????????

In this episode of The Crude Truth, host Rey Treviño interviews Congressman Pat Harrigan, a former Green Beret, two-time Bronze Star recipient, and now U.S. Representative North Carolina’s 10th District. Together, they unpack the realities behind the ongoing government shutdown, its impact on American workers, and what’s happening behind closed doors in Washington.

Episode Highlights:

(1:45) Rey voices concern for everyday Americans impacted by the shutdown, from federal employees to the strain on healthcare and immigration systems.

(3:00) Congressman Harrigan shares his perspective on serving during a shutdown, his expectations coming into Congress, and how the stalemate is stalling pro-business progress.

(3:55) Rey spotlights Harrigan’s decorated military background and transition from soldier to lawmaker.

(5:40) Is there really a “radical left”? Harrigan says yes—and describes the growing influence of the new generation of liberal Democrats.

(7:00) The hosts discuss what Rey calls the “Schumer Shutdown,” debating whether Senate Democrats are to blame for the current crisis.

(10:00) Rey and Pat dissect the fear factor in politics, the fading of “Blue Dog Democrats,” and partisan gridlock in the Senate.

(12:00) They highlight how the shutdown ripples across America—750,000 to 1.5 million federal employees furloughed, national parks closed, and local economies strained.

(16:30) Rey presses on the issue of healthcare access for illegal immigrants, asking if it’s truly being added to the federal package.

(18:34) Congressman Harrigan closes with insights on how Republicans are staying united, returning to their districts to keep serving their constituents despite the D.C. stalemate.

(21:00) Is North Carolina a swing state? Congressman Harrigan’s hot take

(23:00) Taxes are too high according to Congressman Harrigan

(24:00) Is our energy at risk due to bad policy?

(26:00) Switching gears, what is going on in Indiana, Chicago and Portland? Is there a real threat where these cities need military support

???? The Takeaway:

From Washington politics to Main Street impacts, this episode dives deep into the truth behind the headlines — and what America can expect if the government shutdown drags on.