Part 6/10:
A prolonged political stalemate damages America's reputation abroad. Allies and adversaries alike observe Washington's inability to govern effectively, interpreting it as weakness or distraction. Such perceptions weaken deterrence, embolden adversaries, and undermine the U.S.'s role as a global leader.
While a short shutdown might not dismantle America's defenses overnight—the military remains on duty—the longer the gridlock persists, the deeper the erosion of readiness, intelligence capabilities, and credibility. The cumulative effect destabilizes America's strategic position and invites external threats to capitalize on perceived vulnerabilities.