Stealth’s intellect and debating skills

“So the Mount is now under the Army’s control?”
“Technically, unless you seceded from the United States at some point in the past two years … yeah.”
“Which United States are you referring to?”
The question froze Smith and Freedom. It jarred the others, too. The man in the suit coughed once. “I … I’m not sure I understand your question.”
Stealth crossed her arms. “Which states are still united? California has not had a functioning state government for twenty-two months now. There are no social services in effect. No taxes levied or laws enforced. Its borders and lands are not maintained. As a state, California has ceased to exist by any possible definition. From our own limited reconnaissance, I can say with some certainty it is not alone in this respect. Alaska. Arizona. Florida. Hawaii. Massachusetts. Nevada. New York. Oregon. Texas. Washington.” She paused for a moment, then added, “The District of Columbia.”
Smith shifted his feet.
“So I ask,” she continued, “which states are still running and operating to the extent they can form a united nation, one that you and these soldiers can represent?”

Excerpt From Ex-Patriots, pg 208-209
Peter Clines
https://books.apple.com/us/book/ex-patriots/id585738393