Teach Republicans a 'painful lesson': Shutdown tips for Democrats from a former GOP strategist

Project 2025 & Government Shutdown - Project 2025 is a 922-page ultra-conservative agenda crafted by the Heritage Foundation, aiming to reshape policy for potential Republican administrations [1] - The current government shutdown is viewed as an opportunity to implement aspects of Project 2025, including budget cuts and agency restructuring [1] - Russell Vote, a self-described Christian nationalist, is considered the key architect of Project 2025, advocating for aggressive use of executive power [1] Political Strategies & Consequences - The White House is accused of using the shutdown as cover to enact policies aligned with Project 2025 [1][3] - $18 billion in transit project funding in New York and $8 billion in green energy funding in 16 states are threatened to be frozen or canceled [2][3] - The Democrats are advised to allow the shutdown's consequences to be felt by voters, particularly those who support Trump, to highlight the negative impacts of his policies [10][14] - Republicans in swing seats are reportedly concerned about the political fallout from the shutdown [11] - Early polling suggests that approximately 150% more people blame Trump and the Republicans for the shutdown [13] Economic Impact - Tariffs are identified as causing "enormous economic damage," hurting farmers, working-class manufacturing jobs, and construction jobs [9] - The potential for farmer bailouts is discussed, with concerns that such bailouts could be seen as a validation of Trump's policies [14][15] Virginia Elections - Virginia is highlighted as a bellwether state, with upcoming congressional races in 2026 being particularly important [12][18][21] - Republicans risk losing three or four congressional seats in Virginia due to the shutdown [18]