VIDEO Matthews: The "Hard-Right" Is Calling The Shots On A Shutdown | Hardball | MSNBC

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Matthews: The "Hard-Right" Is Calling The Shots On A Shutdown | Hardball | MSNBC In an engaging episode of MSNBC's Hardball, Chris Matthews discusses the influence of hard-right conservatives on President Trump's decision-making regarding a government shutdown. This 2018 broadcast highlights how Trump was urged by prominent figures like Rush Limbaugh and Ann Coulter to take a hard stance on border wall funding, ultimately leading to the government's partial closure.

Key Points from the Discussion:​

• Government Shutdown Context: At the time, tensions were high as President Trump aligned his actions with the calls from right-wing media, particularly in response to his base's expectations for border security measures, notably the funding for the border wall.
• Chaos in the White House: Matthews describes a chaotic atmosphere in the White House, indicating the disarray and uncertainty faced by Trump's administration as they navigated conflicting pressures from lawmakers and media personalities.
• Political Dynamics: The discussion outlines how Trump's decision to not sign the spending bill was mainly influenced by his perception of loyalty to hard-right supporters. Matthews pointed out that this move was not well-received by many Republicans in Congress who were unaware of the president's intentions.
• Media Influence: A critical element of the segment is the emphasis on how Trump’s governance was often steered by media narratives. Matthews argued that instead of relying on the guidance of his political advisors, Trump was reactive to the commentary from right-wing media, which led to a disjointed approach to governance.
• Consequences for the Economy: Discussions during the episode hinted at potential long-term economic implications of the shutdown, including significant financial losses and a negative impact on public services, which could resonate well beyond the immediate crisis.
  

  Conclusion​

  This segment from Hardball serves as a crucial illustration of the political climate during Trump's tenure and the interplay between media influences and governmental decisions. The episode underscores urgent themes relevant in discussions about governance, party dynamics, and the impact of media on political actions. What do you think about the influence of media on political decision-making? Have you noticed any similar patterns in today's political climate? Share your thoughts below!