The Gist Not Even Mad: Charles Lehman & Brad Carson
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Nov 13, 2025 
Join Charles Fain Lehman, a fellow at the Manhattan Institute, and Brad Carson, former congressman and AI policy expert, as they tackle pressing topics. They dive into the political strategies surrounding government shutdowns and the potential rise of data centers as a local political issue. The duo explores the cultural implications of legalization trends in sports betting and marijuana, while also debating the complexities of AI regulation in today's society. Plus, enjoy some lighthearted banter on social norms and pet peeves!
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Shutdown Was A Symbolic Hail Mary
- The Democratic shutdown was a Hail Mary driven by a lack of power and base pressure rather than a solid strategy.
- It improved poll perception briefly but yielded no durable policy gains, per Charles Fain Lehman.
Short-Term Shock, Long-Term Primary Effect
- The shutdown likely won't sway most 2026 voters, who'll forget its specifics by then.
- But it could reshape primaries by energizing party bases and altering candidate choices, per Brad Carson and Charles Fain Lehman.
Data Centers As A Sleeper Political Issue
- Data centers can become a localized political issue tied to rising utility costs and water use.
- Their visceral local impact gives opponents a clear message to flip districts, Brad Carson warns.