On today's episode of 'Politics Nation', host Reverend Al Sharpton addresses the current government shutdown, which has now reached its fourth day without any indication of a resolution between Congressional Democrats and Republicans under the leadership of President Trump. Congress has adjourned until mid-month, resulting in significant repercussions: thousands of federal employees have been furloughed, some without compensation, and numerous taxpayer-funded institutions remain closed indefinitely. 

The President perceives this situation as an opportunity to assert greater pressure on his opposition and to reshape the government by reducing funding for what he refers to as "Democrat agencies." This evening, we will provide updates on the ongoing shutdown, hear from a sitting Congressman regarding its impact on his district, and receive insights from the head of the largest federal employees' union concerning the circumstances faced by his members. Additionally, a former Medicare and Medicaid administrator will elucidate how the healthcare debates central to this shutdown also represent a civil rights issue, particularly for African Americans.