Actually, we haven't had a shut down in seven years, so it's not like the happen all the time. I mean, I'm not going to point out who was in office seven years ago, but you know.... I think they threaten them more than they actually happen. It's all a game like you said.
And this is the problem. It is a game that should not be allowed to play, yet apparently, the American people are okay with this system.
I don't think most of them know any better. The older generation thinks the two party system is the only way that will work. The middle generations see the flaws, but feel there is no way out, and the younger generation is already being indoctrinated to accept the status quo.