All articles tagged with #congressional dysfunction
Facing persistent GOP rebels and a razor-thin majority, Speaker Mike Johnson snapped 'I'm sick of this shit' at Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, apologized to Luna and to a child witness, and then pulled the veterans bill; the episode highlights ongoing factionalism in the Republican conference and Johnson’s effort to keep his agenda moving despite hard-liner opposition and the threat of punishments.
The Pentagon has deployed additional military assets to the Middle East following the recent terrorist attacks on Israel, but is struggling to find the necessary funds due to congressional dysfunction. Operating under a temporary funding measure, the Pentagon has had to divert money from existing operations and maintenance accounts, resulting in less funding for training, exercises, and deployments. The lack of a full-year spending bill has hindered the military's ability to start new programs or pay for anything beyond the previous year's levels. The situation is further complicated as the Pentagon supports two wars simultaneously in Ukraine and Israel. If a full-year spending bill is not passed by April, the Pentagon and other federal agencies may face a 1 percent across-the-board spending cut.
NPR's Tamara Keith and Susan Page of USA Today discuss the legacy of Rosalynn Carter, President Biden's low approval ratings on key issues, and the challenges of congressional dysfunction in an upcoming election year. They also touch on the potential for another government shutdown and the difficulties faced by Speaker Mike Johnson in navigating a narrow margin. The White House views the polls as reflecting broader approval ratings and takes a long-term perspective, while Susan Page emphasizes the impact of abortion and antipathy towards Donald Trump on voter choices. Finally, the journalists express gratitude for their families and the journalists who risk their lives to bring news, as well as the viewers and readers who engage in meaningful conversations.