The DSR Network Words Matter: American Democracy at a Point of No Return
Feb 13, 2026
Norm Ornstein, political scholar known for deep knowledge of Congress, offers blunt analysis of current threats to American democracy. He discusses the looming government shutdown, collapsing congressional oversight, voter suppression schemes, and abuses at the border. He warns about cronyism, legal cover-ups, and why 2026 could be a perilous year for democratic norms.
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Shutdown Strategy Centers On DHS Carve-Outs
- A DHS-focused shutdown is likely and Democrats want to separate FEMA, Coast Guard, and TSA funding to preserve vital services.
- Holding out on ICE and Border Patrol funding increases leverage but risks pay disruptions and operational glitches.
Unify Message Around Accountability
- Democrats must coordinate a single clear message framing Republicans as responsible for extending a shutdown.
- Emphasize Republican refusal to require basic accountability (body cams, visible IDs, no masks) for ICE and Border Patrol.
Homan Declares Victory In Minneapolis
- Tom Homan declared Operation Metro Surge in Minneapolis a success and said his people would leave.
- David Rothkopf suggested Democrats should loudly frame the withdrawal as a victory for local resistance and the rule of law.