Part 8/9:
Beyond immediate inconveniences, prolonged shutdowns threaten the core principles of American democracy. The government exists to serve the people—whether through issuing passports, managing tax filings, or ensuring public safety. When shutdowns become routine, the legitimacy of government functions is questioned, and public trust diminishes.
Furthermore, the current legislative environment discourages scrutiny and accountability. If Congress continues to operate primarily as a rubber stamp for executive policies and relies on extreme factions for electoral support, the checks and balances that safeguard democracy could weaken or disappear altogether.