Emily Bazelon, John Dickerson, and David Plotz discuss the government shutdown, new Russia connections revealed in the Mueller investigation, and why Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is getting so much attention.Topic ideas for next week? You can tweet suggestions, links, and questions to @SlateGabfest. Tweet us your cocktail chatter using #cocktailchatter or post it to our Facebook page. (Messages may be quoted by name unless the writer stipulates otherwise.) Become a fan of the Political Gabfest on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @SlateGabfest. The email address for the Political Gabfest is [email protected]. (Email may be quoted by name unless the writer stipulates otherwise.) Podcast production by Jocelyn Frank.Research and show notes by Bridgette Dunlap.This episode is brought to you by the following advertisers: Doctors Without Borders. Donate today at doctorswithoutborders.org.Capterra. Try it today, for free, at Capterra.com/GABFEST. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices