Trump easily beats Nikki Haley in the South Carolina primary, but many Haley voters say they won't vote for him in November. Will they change their minds in a race against Joe Biden? Plus, what's next for Haley, and could Michigan Democrats shock the Biden campaign in this week's primary by voting "uncommitted” to protest his Israel policy? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The impeachment inquiry of Joe Biden digs into business dealings by his family, as investigators interview his brother, James Biden, as well as Tony Bobulinski, a former associate of the President's son Hunter. Do Republicans have the evidence? Plus, the Supreme Court declines a case on racial admissions policies at Virginia's selective Thomas Jefferson High School. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump recently compared his criminal indictments to the plight of Alexei Navalny, who died in a Russian prison. Nikki Haley and Joe Biden both criticized the remark, as the candidates spar over U.S. policy toward the Kremlin and Ukraine. Plus, the Hunter Biden special counsel indicts FBI informant Alexander Smirnov for lying about information he provided about Hunter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trump suggests at a town hall that Tim Scott, Kristi Noem and Vivek Ramaswamy might be potential running mates, but who else is plausible? Plus, Joe Biden's age and fitness are debated again after another slight stumble on the Air Force One stairway, while thousands of Americans with student loans are getting an email from the President saying he is forgiving their debts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nikki Haley vows to stay in the 2024 GOP primary, though the polls say she's far behind in her home state of South Carolina. Plus, Donald Trump finally reacts to the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny in a prison run by Vladimir Putin, while also decrying the $355 million civil fraud verdict against him issued by New York Judge Arthur Engoron. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rep. Mike Turner, who leads the House Intelligence Committee, calls on the White House to release details on a classified threat, sparking speculation and a murky confirmation of a Russian anti-satellite weapon. Plus, Donald Trump's hush-money trial gets a court date, while Fani Willis is grilled about whether dating one of her prosecutors requires her disqualification. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the second anniversary of Russia's invasion nears, Jillian Melchior reports from Kyiv on the war. Jillian says Ukrainians are determined to fight on, but their situation will be dire if the U.S. Congress fails to send more air defenses, artillery shells and other arms for the country's self-defense.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Congressional Budget Office says the U.S. is set to add more than $20 trillion to the debt in the next decade, with interest payments surpassing spending on national defense. Plus, House Republicans impeach Alejandro Mayorkas, despite no prospect of Senate conviction, and the GOP loses a seat in Congress, as New Yorkers choose Tom Suozzi to replace George Santos.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Senate passes a $95 billion bill with aid for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan, which also could pass the House, if Speaker Mike Johnson would permit a vote. But he's back to complaining that it doesn't address the U.S.-Mexico border, as Democrats sign a discharge petition to bypass him. Plus, New Yorkers vote on Tom Suozzi or Mazi Pilip to replace George Santos in Congress. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The special counsel's report describing Joe Biden as a "well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory” means Democrats can't ignore the issue of the President's age and mental frailty. Will anyone step forward to urge him not to run again? Plus, Donald Trump riles U.S. allies by suggesting he might not help a NATO ally against Russian aggression. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Special counsel Robert Hur finds evidence that Joe Biden "willfully retained and disclosed classified materials," but recommends no criminal charges, in part due to the President's memory lapses. Biden responds in a fiery press conference that raises more questions about his age. Plus, even the Supreme Court's liberal Justices sound skeptical about removing Donald Trump from the ballot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Senate Republicans defeated a border security bill they said they wanted, while House Republicans failed to pass a bill to help Israel fight Hamas and messed up the vote count as they tried to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. Is this a failure of leadership, or the result of narrow majorities, or is Donald Trump's influence to blame? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump is not immune from prosecution, a D.C. appeals court says, meaning his federal trial for trying to reverse the 2020 election might be back on the calendar. The ruling can be appealed to the Supreme Court, but do the Justices want to take it? Plus, the High Court will consider Colorado's decision to remove Trump from the ballot for "insurrection" under the 14th Amendment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nevada is holding both a primary and a caucus this week, so will Donald Trump and Nikki Haley both try to claim victory? Meantime, Joe Biden sweeps South Carolina, but he declines a Super Bowl interview on CBS and gets confused about who's the president of France. Plus, listener questions on the argument by Texas that the border crisis is legally an "invasion." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Senate's bipartisan border security bill negotiated by Oklahoma Sen. James Lankford is the most restrictive in decades. How does it change current law, would it limit migration, and how are the politics playing out on the right and left? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gov. Greg Abbott, citing a migrant "invasion," is installing concertina wire along the Rio Grande in Eagle Pass. But the Border Patrol keeps cutting the razor wire, and now the feds say they're completely being denied access to the border. Who will win this legal standoff? Plus, MAGA internet pundits and provocateurs say Taylor Swift is part of a secret plot to re-elect Joe Biden. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The House passed what is being heralded as a bipartisan deal on business tax breaks and expanding the child tax credit. But why did Republicans decide to repeal part of their 2017 tax reform? Plus, the border-security talks run into more political opposition even before the details are released. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Amazon is a frequent target for Elizabeth Warren, among others, but after its acquisition of iRobot fell through, the Roomba maker said it was cutting its workforce by 31% and reducing R&D spending. Meantime, a judge stops a merger between JetBlue and Spirit Airlines, and Sen. Bernie Sanders demands that pharma CEOs testify before Congress to explain their pricing policies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A House committee meets to consider impeachment articles against the Homeland Security Secretary for failures at the U.S.-Mexico border. But are these "high crimes and misdemeanors" that merit the first cabinet impeachment in nearly 150 years? Plus, Sen. James Lankford defends his coming border legislation, and the IRS leaker Charles Littlejohn gets five years in prison. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Three Americans were killed in a drone attack on a U.S. base in Jordan, and Joe Biden has promised a response. But will the target list include Iran, whose proxy militias have been attacking U.S. ships and bases? Plus, Israeli intelligence exposes a link between United Nations Relief and Works Agency employees and the Oct. 7 Hamas massacre.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Senator Steve Daines, who's leading the Republican effort, sounds optimistic about the GOP's chances, with tossup races in Montana, Ohio and Arizona. But what if Republicans nominate candidates like Matt Rosendale and Kari Lake, both of whom have lost statewide races in the recent past? Plus, if Democrats hold the Senate, would they nuke the legislative filibuster? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The White House is stalling efforts to export more American liquefied natural gas (LNG) to U.S. allies. Given that LNG development is good for the economy, as well as for weaning Europe off of Russian energy, is this a political mistake for Biden, little more than a gesture to climate activists, akin to the controversy that killed the Keystone XL Pipeline? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump celebrated his win in the New Hampshire primary by again attacking Nikki Haley, while Haley stated her reasons for staying in the race, including Trump's record and age. Plus, Dean Phillips vows to continue his campaign for the Democratic nomination to prevent a Trump victory in November.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

He says Republicans should pass legislation to secure the U.S.-Mexico border only if the bill is "perfect" and the GOP gets "everything." Could this attitude squander a real chance to improve immigration policy, given that at least some Democrats are eager to compromise as they try to save Joe Biden from a political mess? Plus, Speaker Mike Johnson helps to delay a possible shutdown until March. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nikki Haley sharpens her criticism of Donald Trump, including his mental fitness, as she tries to rally Republicans and independents to win the New Hampshire primary. Plus, Democratic Rep. Dean Phillips hopes to put a scare in the Biden campaign in the Granite State, and what went wrong with Ron DeSantis's candicacy? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The departing climate envoy claims companies are pulling back from electric vehicles because of a scare campaign. But with Hertz downsizing its Tesla fleet and Ford cutting production of its F-150 Lightning, does this explanation fly? Plus, the Supreme Court agrees to decide whether the Eighth Amendment includes a right to homeless encampments, in a case called City of Grants Pass v. Johnson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The New Hampshire primary may be the best chance for Haley to beat Trump, and the former President is going all out to attack her, including a slap at her Indian Sikh name. How will Haley fight back? Plus, Ron DeSantis shifts his focus to South Carolina, and a bad bipartisan tax deal is floated on Capitol Hill. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Who should decide the meaning of an "ambiguous" federal law, regulatory agencies or judges? That's the question the Justices are considering in a pair of cases that challenge a doctrine known as "Chevron deference," named after a 1984 precedent. What is the history of this kind of deference to the executive branch, and why do critics view it as constitutionally problematic? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Despite low voter turnout and even lower temperatures outdoors, Donald Trump scored historic numbers in the Iowa caucuses, cementing his place as the Republican frontrunner to challenge Joe Biden. But as the contest moves to New Hampshire, Nikki Haley is in striking distance. Plus, Ron DeSantis bets on South Carolina after finishing second in Iowa, and Vivek Ramaswamy suspends his campaign.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Biden hits more than 60 targets in retaliation for dozens of Houthi attacks, including on commercial ships in the Red Sea. Will this send a strong enough message to the group's sponsors in Iran? Plus, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin reportedly had a hand in the Yemen strikes, just after causing controversy by failing to inform the White House of his hospitalization.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While Donald Trump took the stage alone at a competing town hall, Nikki Haley and Ron DeSantis debated one-on-one for the first time, days before the Iowa caucuses. But did their dueling barbs do more damage to their own campaigns than to the frontrunner? Plus, Chris Christie suspends his campaign before the New Hampshire primary, leaving questions about who will inherit his supporters and what his next political move might be.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin checked into a hospital last week, no one apparently informed President Biden or the White House, a breakdown of communication in Washington that is prompting calls for the Pentagon chief to resign. Plus, Hunter Biden makes a surprise appearance on Capitol Hill, as the House considers holding him in contempt for defying a subpoena. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With parts of the federal government scheduled to run out of money next week, the new House Speaker makes an agreement with Democrats on a 2024 spending level. What's in this deal, which largely tracks the plan advanced last year by the ousted Speaker Kevin McCarthy? And can Johnson get Republicans on the same page, given opposition from the Freedom Caucus? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With a week to go before the Iowa caucuses, Donald Trump tries to stop Nikki Haley's rise. Plus, Joe Biden tries to frame the presidential campaign as a fight over the legacy of Jan. 6, 2021, and the future of democracy. Will it work against Trump? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump, Nikki Haley and Ron DeSantis have all revved up their attacks as the political world counts down to the contests in Iowa and New Hampshire. Can Nikki Haley continue her climb and go head-to-head with Donald Trump? Can Ron DeSantis live up to the early promise of his campaign? Or has Donald Trump won the nomination before the race even started?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

More violence and disorder has broken out in the Middle East as ISIS takes responsibility for two bombings that killed dozens of people in Iran. Will Iran respond to the acts of terrorism and widen the war, and what could the U.S. and its allies do to prevent any escalation? Plus, Speaker Mike Johnson takes GOP members of the House to the border to pressure Joe Biden into reforming immigration policy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Amid twin scandals involving academic plagiarism and campus antisemitism after Oct. 7, Claudine Gay resigns as president of Harvard. Could this be a moment for the Ivy League, and academia broadly, to refocus itself on learning instead of activism? Plus, a study commissioned by the Pentagon dispels some myths about the alleged rise of extremism in the U.S. military.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A second state has removed Donald Trump from the 2024 ballot, after Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows rules that the Jan. 6 riot was an insurrection. Will the Supreme Court decide this question for good, as other states consider following the lead of Maine and Colorado? Plus, the House passes a bill to increase transparency on foreign money going to U.S. universities. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Paul Gigot, Kim Strassel and Kyle Peterson make their selections for the most significant stories of the year, including the Hunter Biden investigation, the indictments of Donald Trump, Kevin McCarthy's election to Speaker of the House and his eventual removal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Paul Gigot interviews political scientist Ruy Teixeira on why Democrats have been losing working-class voters and what they can do about it as the U.S. enters a polarizing presidential election year.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The White House demands close scrutiny of a $14 billion acquisition by Japan's Nippon Steel, but is this merely political and union posturing? After all, Japan is a close ally, and the Pentagon only uses a fraction of annual U.S. steel production. Plus, the latest Census numbers show more Americans fleeing blue states, which could shake up the House after the 2030 census. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The state Justices say that Wisconsin's legislative maps must be redrawn because they aren't contiguous. But previous rulings had upheld maps that connect municipal "islands," and the state Supreme Court now insists that remedial districts must be politically neutral as well. Is this really a Democratic power play, made possible by the election of liberal Justice Janet Protasiewicz? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Governor Greg Abbott signed new laws into legislation to tackle the crisis at the border, enabling police to arrest migrants crossing into the U.S. illegally. But will courts strike down these new laws, as happened when Arizona tried to handle the issue on the local level? And is this what happens when Congress can't make a deal to fix immigration policy? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Colorado Supreme Court's ruling to disqualify Donald Trump from the state presidential ballot hands the U.S. Supreme Court some political dynamite. Will it issue a unanimous ruling as many are hoping for? And what about the other looming cases on what some call the Court's 'Trump docket' next year? Plus, the Senate leaves Washington without a deal on Ukraine aid and border security.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Colorado Supreme Court rules to disqualify Donald Trump from appearing on the 2024 presidential primary ballot, citing the 14th Amendment. How will the Supreme Court rule on this when it likely ends up in front of the Justices? Plus, even Donald Trump's rivals for the nomination are criticizing the decision, though they'd benefit from the former president's removal from the contest.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The annual defense bill includes a bipartisan provision saying that the President may not withdraw from the NATO alliance without Senate approval. This looks like Congress's insurance policy in case Donald Trump wins a second term in 2024, but can the legislative power of the purse really keep the U.S. in a military alliance against the will of the commander in chief? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The world is watching as newspaper publisher Jimmy Lai faces charges of collusion with foreign forces, which carries a life sentence. Hong Kong and China are more on trial than Mr. Lai is. Plus, Houthi forces attack commercial vessels in the Red Sea to disrupt global trade routes, with all signs pointing to involvement from Iran. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When the government monitors foreigners outside the U.S. to protect national security, that information goes into a database that can be searched later, including for Americans. With Section 702 authority about to expire, some Republicans want to add a warrant requirement for queries on U.S. persons, while others are focused on better oversight and accountability for abuses. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Stock and bond prices soared after the Federal Reserve suggested that interest-rates cuts could begin as early as the spring. What would that mean for how voters view the economy and Joe Biden’s prospects in 2024? Plus, the global climate conference in Dubai announces an agreement to transition from fossil fuels. Does it matter? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the House prepared to vote on opening a formal impeachment inquiry into Joe Biden, Hunter Biden stood in front of the Capitol and refused to testify behind closed doors. Will the President's son face contempt charges, or will he get the public hearing he's demanding? Plus, the New York Court of Appeals orders a new congressional map, putting GOP seats, and the GOP House majority, in jeopardy.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Volodymyr Zelensky came to Washington, D.C. to try to persuade Congress to give Ukraine the aid it urgently needs to defeat Russia. Will his visit break the stalemate that's holding up the deal? Plus, will Joe Biden make the "compromises" he says he will make on border security in order to make a Ukraine package happen? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The moral equivocation by three university presidents before Congress about antisemitism has revealed a deeper problem of political conformity and illiberal values on campus. Are DEI policies part of the problem? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The President's son says the new charges are a political effort to get at Joe Biden, but does the indictment instead vindicate critics of the previous plea deal cut by prosecutor David Weiss? Plus, former Speaker Kevin McCarthy and onetime Acting Speaker Patrick McHenry are leaving Congress, as Speaker Mike Johnson tries to wrangle his small and fractious GOP majority. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the former President skips another Republican debate, his rivals go after his age, his record, and his fitness for office. But did Nikki Haley, Ron DeSantis or Chris Christie say anything that will change the polling as the Iowa caucus nears? Plus, the Senate fails to pass a bill with Ukraine and Israel aid, but why won't Joe Biden help by cutting a deal on immigration and the border? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Speaker Mike Johnson suggests he might soon hold a vote on the House's impeachment inquiry of Joe Biden and Hunter Biden’s business dealings. What is that latest evidence from Rep. James Comer's Oversight Committee? Plus, the fourth GOP presidential debate draws Nikki Haley, Ron DeSantis, Chris Christie and Vivek Ramaswamy, but Donald Trump is again a no show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A new report says four public unions spent $700 million on politics in the 2021-22 election cycle, tilted toward Democrats and their causes. But when unions collectively bargain with the politicians they help elect, who speaks up for the taxpayer? Plus, a lawsuit challenges Wisconsin's landmark Act 10 union reform, aiming to overturn it at the liberal state Supreme Court. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe Biden is looking to send more financial aid to Ukraine and Israel to assist in the conflicts those nations are facing against Russia and Hamas, but Republicans want funding for immigration reform as part of the deal. Why is it so hard for Congress to come up with a bipartisan deal that satisfies all parties, or are Democrats and Republicans looking for someone to blame if they can't come to an agreement?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Two governors, a Florida Republican and a California Democrat, go head to head on which model of governance is right for America. Might DeSantis's performance help his 2024 candidacy, and is Newsom running a shadow presidential campaign, despite his denials? Plus, the House expels indicted New York Rep. George Santos, but what precedent does this set in a polarized age? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The statesman and former Secretary of State dies at age 100. Journal editors who knew him discuss his impact on U.S. foreign policy while serving President Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford, and and unofficially advising every President since. Plus, the Senate wrestles over how to tie immigration funding and aid to Ukraine into one bipartisan bill.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nearly 4,000 auto dealerships sign a letter urging President Biden to "tap the brakes" on his "unrealistic" targets for electric vehicles. "Customers are simply not ready to make the change," they write, pointing to high EV prices and unreliable charging stations. Plus, Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley get big endorsements as each tries to be the GOP's 2024 alternative to Donald Trump. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Supreme Court considers the constitutional right to trial by jury, in a case that involves a $300,000 fine issued via an administrative process at the Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC. How much could the Justices' decision affect America's sprawling regulatory state, and is there a critical distinction between a citizen's private rights and his so-called public rights? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hamas agrees to release more hostages as its pause in fighting with Israel is extended beyond its four-day beginning. The pause offers a terrible dilemma for Israel, which must choose between saving more hostage lives and perhaps compromising its war aims against the terror group. Meanwhile, pressure builds for a permanent cease-fire, and Democrats look to put conditions on future aid to Israel.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Commission on Presidential Debates announces its dates and venues for 2024, but the GOP has already voted not to participate, Joe Biden might be looking for an escape, and what if Robert F. Kennedy Jr. makes the cut? Plus, Democrats go after the Spanish-language TV network Univision for an interview of Donald Trump that they say was too soft by journalist Enrique Acevedo. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Under the terms of the agreement, Hamas will return 50 captives, while Israel will free 150 Palestinian prisoners and pause fighting for four days. But Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed that the effort to root out Hamas terrorists is not over. Plus, Joe Biden faces a backlash to his Israel policy from bureaucrats in Washington's deep state. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sens. Bill Cassidy and Lindsey Graham back the Foreign Pollution Fee Act, which would tax imports from China and other countries with higher carbon emissions than the U.S., but is this protectionist interference in the economy? Plus, Major League Baseball gives Atlanta the 2025 All-Star Game, though Commissioner Rob Manfred doesn't say sorry for pulling the 2021 event over the state's election law. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Amid an economic crisis and crippling inflation, voters in Argentina elected Congressman Javier Milei as their new President. He promises an agenda of smaller government and "freedom," but does he have the political skills to pull it off in the long-misruled country?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

About 10,000 low-income Illinois students get scholarships through a program called Invest in Kids, but it's now set to sunset after inaction by Democrats in the Legislature, as well as Gov. J.B. Pritzker. Meantime, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott keeps pressing state lawmakers there to pass his bill to create universal Education Savings Accounts, or ESAs, as rural Republicans balk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The U.S. and Chinese Presidents meet in California and agree to reduce fentanyl production and renew military-to-military communications. But will the meeting overcome underlying disagreements? Plus, American CEOs look bad when they give President Xi a standing ovation, and Congressman George Santos chooses not to seek re-election after a critical report by the House Ethics Committee.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The House passes legislation to fund the federal government through early 2024, but Speaker Mike Johnson is forced to rely on Democratic votes. This same move prompted a Republican revolt against his predecessor, Speaker Kevin McCarthy, but will the GOP's chaos caucus give Johnson more leeway, and is avoiding a holiday omnibus spending bill a kind of victory on its own? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

All nine Justices sign a code of conduct setting out the ethics rules they follow, but Democrats such as Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse say it needs outside enforcement. Plus, Donald Trump proposes that in a second term he'd launch a free online university, called the American Academy, to grant bachelor's degrees and use the federal government to compete with existing colleges. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sen. Tim Scott suspends his campaign for President. Why didn't his message resonate more with voters and could he join a ticket as Vice President? Plus, angst grows among Democrats over Joe Biden's age, a challenge by Rep. Dean Phillips, and a possible third-party campaign by Sen. Joe Manchin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Justices hear arguments in U.S. v. Rahimi, a dispute over whether the federal government can ban gun possession by people under certain civil restraining orders for domestic violence. Plus, West Virginia Sen. Joe Manchin says he won't run for re-election but will aim to build a movement to "mobilize the middle," leading to speculation about a third-party run for president.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Five GOP hopefuls for the White House in 2024 took the stage in Miami, once again without frontrunner Donald Trump. Nikki Haley and Ron DeSantis stood out from the pack. Plus, Mr. DeSantis points to Election Day 2023 as a sign that the GOP is "tired of losing," but were the results as bad as they are being portrayed?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin ends up with a Democratic Legislature, voters in Kentucky re-elect Gov. Andy Beshear over the GOP's Daniel Cameron, and Ohio enshrines abortion in its state constitution. Does the success of Joe Biden's party buoy his prospects for 2024, and how will Nikki Haley, Ron DeSantis and company react at the coming Republican debate in Miami? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As voters go to the polls this election day, they will answer some big questions: Can Gov. Glenn Youngkin carry Republicans to full control of the Virginia Legislature, perhaps paving the way for a White House bid? Will the gubernatorial races in Kentucky and Mississippi end up as close as polls suggest? And could an abortion ballot measure in Ohio be a bellwether for 2024? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A new poll shows Joe Biden is losing to Donald Trump in five of the six battleground states that could decide the 2024 election. Plus, Ron DeSantis gets a key endorsement, pro-Israel Democrats' criticism of Rep. Rashida Tlaib exposes a major party rift, and Donald Trump testifies in his New York fraud trial.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

To protest a Pentagon policy of covering leave and travel for service members seeking abortions, the Alabama Senator has stalled hundreds of military promotions. Is this the right tactic, or does it risk undermining readiness at a dangerous moment in world affairs? Plus, law firms send a message to deans that the anti-Semitic rhetoric on campuses lately isn't tolerable. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While Donald Trump remains the frontrunner for the GOP nomination in 2024, Nikki Haley has surged in recent weeks to second place in Iowa and New Hampshire. Can she keep the momentum going and emerge as the main alternative to Trump? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Speaker Mike Johnson unveils a $14 billion bill for Israel, paid for by rescinding funds from the IRS. But the White House has threatened that Joe Biden would veto it, and GOP Senate Leader Mitch McConnell has called for combined legislation that also includes funding for Ukraine, as well as border security. Do advocates of Israel and Ukraine have a path through this legislative thicket? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tentative deals with Ford, Stellantis and General Motors have ended a lengthy strike, with United Auto Workers leader Shawn Fain claiming a historic victory for labor. But will that make Detroit uncompetitive against auto makers in right-to-work states, particularly as they lose money on electric vehicles? Plus, the Tax Foundation publishes a new ranking of state business climates. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The former Vice President's past with Donald Trump proved too much of a distraction from his message of classic conservatism, and he hadn't qualified for next week's GOP presidential debate. But as Nikki Haley surges, is further Republican consolidation coming? Plus, the Supreme Court is set to hear two cases on whether public officials may block constituents on social media.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The President's sagging poll numbers finally lure a Democratic primary opponent, as Minnesota Rep. Dean Phillips files for the ballot in New Hampshire. But is Biden as weak as Phillips seems to think, and where do the two men disagree on substance? Plus, Jenna Ellis becomes the third attorney tied to Donald Trump to plead guilty in the Georgia 2020 election case. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The U.S. economy grew a robust 4.9% in the third quarter, but how long can this keep going amid higher interest rates? Plus, the United Auto Workers union makes a deal with Ford to go back to work, putting pressure on other auto manufacturers to come to an agreement.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Three weeks after a Republican revolt deposed former Speaker Kevin McCarthy, House Republicans finally find a consensus replacement, Rep. Mike Johnson of Louisiana. Who is he, how did he get the job, and will he prove able to govern, as the House faces another funding deadline to prevent a government shutdown, amid bipartisan calls for military aid to Israel and Ukraine?   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Violent crime dropped 1.7% nationwide in 2022, the headlines say, but not all states are doing the same. In California such offenses are up 13% since 2019, while in Florida they're down 32%. What do these numbers say about the way that Gov. Gavin Newsom and Gov. Ron DeSantis are handling public safety, especially since the two presidential aspirants have agreed to debate? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As world troubles grow, Nikki Haley has been gaining support in the GOP presidential polls. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is fighting back, but Barton Swaim says he is clearly more comfortable on domestic issues. Plus, Kim Strassel talks about the latest candidates for Speaker of the House. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In an Oval Office address, President Biden makes the case that supporting Israel against Hamas, as well as Ukraine against Russia, is in America's national interest, while calling for more security assistance from Congress. Plus, House Republicans are back to square one, after Jim Jordan's bid to be Speaker fails a third time on the floor, with more votes turning against him. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Three weeks remain until Virginia's statehouse elections, and if Republicans take full control of Richmond, they can pass a broad legislative agenda, including repealing the state's mandate for electric vehicles, or EVs. Could a GOP win also propel Gov. Youngkin into the 2024 presidential race? Plus, another day without a Speaker of the House, after Jim Jordan can't find the votes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Biden lands in Israel, meets with Benjamin Netanyahu, and says that the U.S. believes an explosion at a Gaza hospital was an errant missile from a Palestinian terrorist group. Plus, Jim Jordan fails to win a second vote for Speaker of the House, leaving Republicans looking for alternatives, including an expanded role for Speaker Pro Tempore Patrick McHenry.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Federal Judge Tanya Chutkan issues a gag order to stop Donald Trump from disparaging prosecutors and witnesses, but will that hold up on appeal, and does it play into his 2024 campaign of grievances? Plus, Ohio Rep. Jim Jordan fails to be elected Speaker of the House on the first ballot, amid lingering hard feelings in the GOP about the treatment of Kevin McCarthy and Steve Scalise. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The U.S. President expresses firm support for Israel as it prepares for its ground campaign targeting Hamas in Gaza. But will that support hold if there are civilian casualties? Plus, GOP Rep. Jim Jordan spent the weekend trying to find 217 votes to become the next House Speaker. Will he get there?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin visits Israel to affirm U.S. support and send a message to countries like Iran. But can the U.S. handle the two military campaigns in Israel and Ukraine simultaneously? Plus, Donald Trump bumbles into the crisis with an attack on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and a declaration that the Hezbollah militia is "smart." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Potomac Watch podcast, CEO of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies Mark Dubowitz talks about how Israel underestimated Hamas, the impact of a potential second front opening in Israel's north, and the central role played by Iran. Will President Biden now change his Iran policy? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

South Carolina lawmakers say they drew the state's new House map using political data alone, but the local NAACP claims the First District is a racial gerrymander. Plus, Kari Lake drops her "Stop the Steal" act as she announces a 2024 run for Senate in Arizona, but have voters who rejected her last year already forgotten? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hamas's terrorism has left hundreds dead, including 14 Americans, President Biden says, with other U.S. citizens taken to Gaza as hostages. The U.S. is sending ammunition to Israel, while directing the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier to the region, but will this wake up Washington, including leaderless House Republicans? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the first time in 50 years, Israel has declared war in response to Hamas' shocking attacks, including killing hundreds of citizens and taking civilian hostages. So what will be the response from Joe Biden and the United States? Plus, how deep is Iran's role in the conflict?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New Yorkers like Kathy Hochul and Eric Adams keep crying for help on the migrant flow, as President Biden says a 2019 appropriation gives his administration no choice but to build 20 miles of barrier in Texas. Plus, Jim Jordan and Steve Scalise jockey for Speaker of the House, as Donald Trump injects himself into the story. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Justices begin their new term by reviewing whether the unaccountable funding mechanism used by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, or CFPB, is also unconstitutional. Plus, does a "tester" plaintiff under the Americans with Disabilities Act, or ADA, have standing to sue hotels and inns that she never plans to visit? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eight GOP rebels join 208 Democrats to oust the Republican leader, sending the House into disarray. Was this motivated by policy as the malcontents claim, or was it personal as Mr. McCarthy says? Plus, can the GOP unite enough to elect a successor and govern?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The civil case against Trump alleges that he gave bankers misleading financial information, including by inflating the square footage of his Trump Tower triplex and the values of his golf clubs. Judge Arthur Engoron has already granted the state a partial victory, yet hanging over it all is the fact that Attorney General Letitia James campaigned on going after the Trump Organization, a corrosive abuse of prosecutorial power. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Led by Rep. Matt Gaetz, a group of Republican backbenchers plot to remove Kevin McCarthy as House Speaker. But apart from the power play, it isn't clear what they hope to accomplish. And what happens if they succeed?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Federal Trade Commission under Lina Khan sues Amazon for "monopolistic practices," but is the online retailer actually a monopoly, given its competition from brick-and-mortar stores, and is its behavior anticompetitive in a way that harms consumers? Plus, the House fails to pass a stopgap funding bill, setting up a possible government shutdown, as the Biden Administration prepares to close national parks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Seven GOP candidates debated at the Reagan library to see who can emerge as the main alternative to the former President, who has a big lead in the polls. Did anyone come out ahead?   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe Biden makes history by joining a United Auto Workers picket line, as Donald Trump plans a speech in Michigan in lieu of joining the 2024 Republican debate at the Reagan library. Plus, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau wants to erase medical debt from credit reports, as the CFPB's funding goes to the Supreme Court. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A veto-proof GOP Legislature passes a universal voucher program, steamrolling Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper. Next up, Texas, as Gov. Greg Abbott calls a school-choice special session? Plus, another study shows charter successes, as Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis Gates sends her son to a private school. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New Jersey Sen. Robert Menendez says he'll be exonerated of corruption charges, so why are his fellow Democrats calling on him to resign? Plus, two new polls deliver bad news about Joe Biden's chances for re-election.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With the summer heat waning, migrant crossings at the southern border are again nearing records. Meantime, President Biden grants temporary protected status, or TPS, to about 500,000 Venezuelans, which will allow them to work in the U.S. Plus, Nikki Haley unveils an economic plan that includes raising the retirement age.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The second Republican debate is scheduled next week, but Donald Trump will instead give a speech to union workers in Detroit. Does he not think voters deserve to hear his positions on abortion, Ukraine, his electability, and more? Plus, a new poll in New Hampshire puts Ron DeSantis in fifth place, as the GOP field fractures. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Assessing the latest Republican platform planks, starting with Tim Scott's economic agenda, which tackles spending, welfare reform, tax cuts and more. Plus, Ron DeSantis calls for the U.S. to achieve "energy dominance," Mike Pence gets tough on China, and Nikki Haley promises a plan to save America from Bidenomics.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With 12 days left before government funding expires, the House GOP is again tactically divided. What do the dissenting Republicans want, and why do some believe they'd win a shutdown? Plus, Speaker Kevin McCarthy dares his critics to try to oust him with a motion to vacate, because who could replace him remains a mystery.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ken Paxton's impeachment trial ended in a full acquittal for the Texas Attorney General, exposing the problems of states ruled by one political party, as well as a split in the Texas Republican Party that resonates nationally. Plus, Donald Trump opposes a six-week ban on abortion but says he'd be open to a cognitive test for presidential candidates.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

United Auto Workers go on strike at Ford, General Motors and Stellantis factories, as Joe Biden takes their side. Are their demands reasonable, and what role is the transition to electric vehicles playing? Plus, Hunter Biden is indicted on three gun felonies, but where is special counsel David Weiss going on the tax investigation? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

House Republicans begin an impeachment inquiry to examine the extent of President Biden's involvement in his son Hunter's business dealings. What evidence are they looking for, and has impeachment been defined down? Plus, the emergency gun ban declared by New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham is blocked in court. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Wall Street Journal's Potomac Watch podcast features author Thomas Sowell, whose new book dissects the misconceptions that distort public understanding about differences among individuals and racial and other groups. And why do so many intellectuals fall for the 'chess piece fallacy' about human behavior? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Fifth Circuit appeals court says federal officials, including in the White House, coerced social-media companies to take down more posts. Is this going to the Supreme Court? Plus, New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham uses an emergency order to ban firearm carry in Albuquerque and Bernalillo County, but local police won't enforce it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The anxiety is growing louder as Democrats look at polls showing that three quarters of all voters think President Biden is too old to run for a second term. Revelations about Hunter Biden and the family business don't help, and Vice President Kamala Harris could also weigh down the ticket. Democrats are counting on Donald Trump to rescue them as the Republican nominee. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At a town hall in Manhattan, Mayor Eric Adams says that the city lacks the resources to care for the thousands of migrants arriving each month, but he blames Texas Gov. Greg Abbott instead of his fellow Democrats, including Joe Biden's border policies. Plus, the impeachment trial begins for Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The former Vice President takes aim at Donald Trump by saying populism without conservative principles is "Republicans in name only" and will ruin the GOP. Plus, Bernie Sanders goes all in on his support for Joe Biden, and Mitch McConnell says he's staying as the GOP's Senate leader. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Potomac Watch podcast, Paul Gigot sits down with 2024 presidential candidate and former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie about where Ron DeSantis and Vivek Ramaswamy are wrong on Ukraine, how he would handle trade policy with China, and why he's focusing on New Hampshire and not Iowa to win the nomination in 2024.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A legal argument now gaining attention is that Donald Trump can't serve again as president, because the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol counts as an "insurrection" under the 14th Amendment, which barred Confederates from office after the Civil War. Plus, a new WSJ poll shows Trump's support in the GOP primary rising to 59%. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis's presidential campaign is on pause for Hurricane Idalia, but he's displaying the no-nonsense leadership that has put him in second place behind Donald Trump. Plus, Vivek Ramaswamy does a subtle shift on Taiwan, and Miami Mayor Francis Suarez drops out after missing the GOP debate stage. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While Vice President, Joe Biden maintained several email accounts under pseudonyms, some of which were used to conduct government business, as well as correspondence with his son, Hunter Biden. Why? Plus, concerns about Mitch McConnell and the future of the GOP Senate leadership arise after the Senate Minority Leader freezes in front of cameras for the second time in recent weeks.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The president announces the first 10 drugs for which the government will "negotiate" prices under the Inflation Reduction Act. What will this do to the incentive to develop new cures and launch generic alternatives? Plus, the plan faces legal challenges over whether the threatened penalty of a 1,900% tax is constitutional. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Virginia parents ask the Justices to strike down new admissions rules at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, which they say are intended to block Asian students. Plus, listener emails on Mike Pence, a 2024 rematch between Joe Biden and Donald Trump, and Trump's plan for a 10% universal tariff. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A federal judge set March 4, 2024, as the date for Donald Trump's federal trial for election interference, one day before voters go to the polls on Super Tuesday. How much time will the GOP frontrunner be spending in court and not on the campaign trail? Plus, the polls since last week's GOP presidential debate show gains for some of Trump's competitors. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Trump says he wants universal tariffs on imports to the U.S., an enormous new tax on American consumers that also would provoke retaliation, which is one reason his last trade war failed. Plus, Joe Biden holds a summit at Camp David with the leaders of Japan and South Korea, a good step in countering China. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Candidates Nikki Haley and Mike Pence took advantage of Donald Trump's absence and turned in impressive performances in Milwaukee, but did Ron DeSantis get the breakout moment he needed? Plus, though Donald Trump did not appear on the debate stage, questions about his indictment and his fitness for office loomed large over the contest.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

During a visit to Hawaii, Joe Biden tries to connect by bringing up an old fire at his Delaware house. Are visits to disaster sites a political no-win, even when the president doesn't veer off script? Do renewable energy mandates compete with spending on wildfire safety? Plus, the panel previews the first GOP presidential debate.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Leaked correspondence from Hunter Biden's attorneys, particularly a threat to call Joe Biden to testify at trial, shows the pressure federal prosecutors were under not to bring a serious case. Can special counsel David Weiss credibly keep his job, given his involvement in this fiasco? Plus, listeners write in on the Hunter inquiry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The former President says his lead in the polls means he can duck the first Republican presidential debate on Wednesday. But his absence may give another candidate or two a chance to shine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As children return to the classroom this fall, states are reporting record demand for school-choice programs, though teachers unions keep throwing up roadblocks. Plus, Donald Trump strongly hints he will skip next week's Republican debate, while a political consultancy publicly airs its advice for Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Biden and Democrats celebrated the first anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act this week, touting green jobs and electric vehicles. But is the multi-trillion-dollar spending bill a winner politically, especially for swing state Senators running for re-election? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mike Pence unveils a plan to end the Education Department, and Chris Christie leaps over Ron DeSantis in New Hampshire, but Donald Trump might be a no show at the first GOP primary debate. Plus, as Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin fights to retake Richmond, might he be a fallback option to take on Joe Biden in 2024?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis unveils charges against Trump and 18 others for trying to overturn the 2020 election, including on that infamous phone call with Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger. How does this case differ from the federal indictment by Special Counsel Jack Smith, and will it affect the 2024 GOP primaries? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Biden administration is poised to make a deal with Iran, handing over $6 billion and getting five American prisoners in return. Democrats say the money will go to food and medicine, but critics say money is fungible and the $6 billion will help Iran fund mayhem in the Middle East. Will the money-for-hostages swap lead to a broader nuclear deal with Tehran? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Attorney General Merrick Garland names a special counsel to investigate Hunter Biden, but it's David Weiss, the U.S. attorney who has been on the case all along. Does this appointment change anything? Might it work to President Biden's benefit, if he can use the inquiry as an excuse to dodge tough questions through 2024? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The consumer-price index rose modestly in July, or 3.2% for the last 12 months. Can the Federal Reserve declare victory?. Plus, President Biden’s executive order banning some U.S. tech investment in China walks an economic and security tightrope. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In an Ohio ballot question widely viewed as a proxy for abortion policy, the Republican position is rejected by double digits. A year after the Supreme Court's ruling in Dobbs, overturning Roe v. Wade, does the GOP have to reevaluate its strategy in light of the Ohio result and similar referendums in Michigan and Wisconsin? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A law known as Section 702 lets the U.S. scoop up information from foreigners abroad, but agencies like the FBI also sometimes query the database for U.S citizens. Should this provision, created after 9/11, be allowed to expire, or is it still useful in stopping terrorism? What's the best way to maximize accountability and minimize abuse? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With demands from Democrats that Supreme Court Justices recuse themselves from hearing certain cases, Paul Gigot and James Taranto discuss the Journal's recent interview with Justice Samuel Alito that caused an uproar in the media and on the left.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fitch Ratings drops U.S. debt to AA+, from AAA, which Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen calls arbitrary and unwarranted. But the country's debt is high and going higher, and no one wants to tackle Social Security or Medicare. Plus, a handful of House Republicans threaten to vote down a GOP tax bill unless it expands the deduction for state and local taxes, or SALT, which is a subsidy to California, New York and New Jersey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump is arraigned in federal court on charges related to his efforts to overturn the 2020 election. Does special counsel Jack Smith have more evidence pointing to the former President's state of mind than the public has seen? Plus, the transcript of Hunter Biden's former business partner Devon Archer's testimony is released, showing that Joe Biden knew more about his son's business deals than previously revealed.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Special counsel Jack Smith charges the former President with trying to overturn the 2020 election in the runup to the Jan. 6 riot at the Capitol. What does the indictment allege, and how does it try to prove that Trump knew he had actually lost to Joe Biden? Given that lying to the public isn't a crime, could Trump potentially appeal the use of these laws against him all the way to the Supreme Court? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In an effort to reignite his campaign before the first GOP primary debate, Ron DeSantis issues an economic plan that promises to set a target of 3% growth, rein in federal spending, and overhaul American education. But will the proposal's populist notes, including a pledge to dole out "strategic tax abatements," really appeal to Donald Trump's base? Or should DeSantis stick with the ideas that made Florida a success? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While Hunter Biden's ex-business partner Devon Archer appears on Capitol Hill behind closed doors to testify about Joe Biden's involvement in his son's deals, the threat of a violation of the Foreign Agents Registration Act looms over the proceedings. Plus, Democrat Rep. Jim Himes makes a bold statement about Hunter Biden's wrongdoings rarely heard from the left.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a superseding indictment, Special Counsel Jack Smith alleges that the former President tried to delete Mar-a-Lago security footage to cover up his retention of classified files. Does this undermine Trump's claim that he had a right to documents? Plus, Ron DeSantis plans a campaign reset after comments on Bud Light and RFK Jr.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As President Biden's son watched in the courtroom, his plea deal fell apart when the judge in the case asked if he could face prosecution on future charges. How will this affect the President, as the White House changes its line on his son's business deals.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Justice Department sues Texas and Gov. Greg Abbott for installing floating barriers in the Rio Grande, as a federal judge puts President Biden's asylum policy on hold. Meantime, a new study says immigration is the only thing keeping America's labor force from shrinking. Plus, UPS and the Teamsters avoid a strike.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Fortune 100 is between a rock and a hard place, as Democratic state Attorneys General write a letter to defend diversity hiring targets, which Republican AGs suggest are illegal. Plus, government contracts for disadvantaged businesses also face scrutiny after the Supreme Court's decision in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The center-right Popular Party makes gains in Spanish elections against the ruling Socialists, which may produce a hung parliament. What does the result tell us about the political trend in Europe? Plus, the Federal Reserve seems set to end its interest-rate pause and raise rates again. Good idea? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

IRS agents Gary Shapley and Joseph Ziegler tell Congress about interference in the investigation of Hunter Biden on tax charges. Does this put the onus on Attorney General Merrick Garland to answer questions? Plus, a new report says Covid learning loss is being exacerbated by teacher turnover and poor instruction. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

General Mark Milley says the Ukrainian effort against Russia is "far from a failure," but does Ukraine have the weapons it needs to retake territory in the east? Plus, Vladimir Putin tries to hold the world's food supply hostage as the Black Sea grain deal falls apart. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thirteen state attorneys general warn the Fortune 100 that the recent ruling striking down college race preferences also has implications for corporate America. Plus, Joe Biden comes up with a backup plan to forgive student loans, after the Justices overturned his first attempt, but is another legal challenge coming? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Senate Judiciary Committee takes up a Democratic bill to impose "ethics" and recusal rules on the Justices. But would this restore or undermine public confidence, and is it constitutional? Plus, reporters question Justice Sonia Sotomayor's book tours and Venmo reimbursements for Clarence Thomas's Christmas parties. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Has Joe Biden brought the country back to the bad old days of the 1970s? On this episode of the Potomac Watch podcast, Paul Gigot speaks with Kim Strassel about her new book, "The Biden Malaise: How America Bounces Back from Joe Biden's Dismal Repeat of the Jimmy Carter Years." They discuss how the Biden Democrats compare to the Carter Democrats, and how Republicans can make a comeback like they did in 1980. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) passes in the House, with Republican provisions to override the Pentagon on diversity and abortion policy. Does this mean Sen. Tommy Tuberville will quit holding up military promotions? And what does it say about the GOP that amendments to block aid to Ukraine were voted down? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

NATO overcomes objections from Turkey to invite Sweden as its 32nd member nation, while Ukraine gets a promise of future membership, albeit without a timeline. Plus, FBI Director Christopher Wray displayed his political skills while dodging questions from House Republicans, but he didn't do the bureau's reputation any favors.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Federal Trade Commission Chair Lina Khan fails to stop Microsoft's $75 billion acquisition of the video-game developer Activision Blizzard, but her campaign against bigness continues. Plus, congressional Republicans want to hear from U.S. Attorney David Weiss about the Hunter Biden investigation and plea deal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The alliance says Ukraine will be invited to join later, when "conditions are met" but without a specific timeline, drawing the ire of Volodymyr Zelensky. Plus, Turkey says it will no longer object to Sweden's NATO accession, and Joe Biden agrees to send cluster bombs to Ukraine, while noting America's dwindling ammo stockpiles. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Potomac Watch podcast, Paul Gigot speaks with North Dakota Governor and 2024 GOP Presidential candidate Doug Burgum about how energy policy failures led to the war in Ukraine, why a flat tax would make sense for Washington, if sanctions should continue on Russian oil, and why a Jan. 6 riot would not happen during a Burgum administration.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The president is trying to bolster his economic record as 2024 nears, but what exactly does he mean by "Bidenomics," or is this merely a new gloss he's putting on his push for industrial policy? Plus, the latest jobs numbers show hiring has slowed, but probably not enough to dissuade the Federal Reserve from raising rates. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A federal judge rules that Biden officials broke the law by pressuring Facebook, Twitter and other tech platforms to censor views the government didn't like on Covid policy and other issues. Will the ruling hold up on appeal, and what are the stakes for the First Amendment? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With Americans uneager for a 2024 rematch between President Biden and President Trump, the group No Labels says its polling shows that 59% of voters are open to a moderate independent candidate. Could a third party really win the Electoral College, and what would be its platform? Or would its candidate be a sure spoiler? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Justices finish another historic year by barring racial preferences in college admissions and overturning President Biden's regulatory overreach in forgiving student loans. What does this tell us about the new conservative majority, and how much credit does Donald Trump get for his three High Court appointments?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Supreme Court finished its term by ruling to end Joe Biden's student-loan forgiveness program in a 6-3 decision. The move is the latest example of the Court trying to reign in executive-branch overreach. Plus, both parties weigh in, with 2024 GOP presidential hopefuls lauding the decision while Democrats vow to provide loan forgiveness by other means.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a landmark decision that will reach far beyond campuses, the Supreme Court rules that using race in college admissions is unconstitutional. The decision is a giant step for racial equality under the law and reinforces the plain meaning of the 14th Amendment and the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a 6-3 decision, the Supreme Court reaffirmed the right of state courts to review voting laws and Congressional maps. But did the Justices muddy the issue even further and open the door for more election-related challenges? Plus, Lordstown Motors files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, a hit to Joe Biden's electrical vehicles policies and subsidies.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Two IRS investigators have blown the whistle on the probe into Hunter Biden, as questions continue to mount about the deal the President's son received in pleading guilty to two tax misdemeanors. Plus, Attorney General Merrick Garland defends U.S. Attorney David Weiss's actions in the case, and the panel takes a look at the contents of Hunter Biden's tax returns.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Vladimir Putin is still in power after a failed rebellion led by Yevgeny Prigozhin and his mercenaries, but is U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken right that this shows "cracks" in support for the Russian President? And what does it mean for Ukraine's counteroffensive?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New polling from Gallup, a year after the Supreme Court returned abortion to the political process in the Dobbs case, shows how public attitudes have and haven't changed. Plus, as GOP presidential candidates try to find their footing, Tim Scott and Mike Pence take up abortion at the Faith and Freedom Coalition conference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Former Special Counsel John Durham's testimony before Congress shows how too many in both political parties want prosecutors to become a tool against their opponents. Plus, Justice Samuel Alito defends himself in the Wall Street Journal against a ProPublica article, causing the press to attack the Justice instead of examining the substance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Charter schools "produce superior student gains despite enrolling a more challenging student population," says the latest analysis by Stanford’s Center for Research on Education Outcomes, or Credo. But will this convince union states like New York, where Gov. Kathy Hochul has failed to lift the cap on charters? Plus, an Oklahoma board approves the nation's first religious charter school, which could go to the Supreme Court. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After a five-year investigation, Hunter Biden reaches an agreement to plead guilty to tax misdemeanors, while admitting to felony gun possession. Did President Biden's son get a sweet deal? Plus, President Trump tries to defend his handling of classified documents during an interview with Fox News's Bret Baier.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The GOP passes a bill, with 29 Democratic votes, to stop the Energy Department's "efficiency" rules that could ban the kinds of natural-gas stoves consumers want. If the Senate takes this up, is it destined for President Biden's veto? Plus, California Gov. Gavin Newsom challenges Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis to a public debate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a visit to the Wall Street Journal, the former Vice President says he's running as a conservative who can bring civility back to our political debates. He's also making the case for supporting Ukraine and reforming entitlements, despite the political risks. Can he break through in the Iowa caucuses? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump pleaded not guilty to all counts in the classified document indictment brought by Special Counsel Jack Smith, then later shot back at his critics during an appearance in Bedminster, N.J. Is this how the 2024 campaign is going to look? Plus, the left wants Judge Aileen Cannon removed from the Trump case, and former Vice President Mike Pence explains to the Wall Street Journal Opinion page why he can't defend Donald Trump's actions.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Fourth Circuit upholds Virginia Tech's official Bias Intervention and Response Team, which encourages anonymous reports from students. But is the dissent by Judge J. Harvie Wilkinson III a signal flare for the Supreme Court? Plus, the CPI report shows 4% inflation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Trump denounces the Biden Administration's charges against him for mishandling documents, but former Attorney General Bill Barr says the charges are serious and strong. Does Trump have a good defense, and how will this affect the 2024 election campaign? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Special Counsel Jack Smith unveils 37 counts against Donald Trump related to classified material, including at Mar-a-Lago. Is this a double standard, after Hillary Clinton wasn't charged for her email server, and how will the indictment shake up the GOP race for 2024? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The former Vice President and former New Jersey Governor launch their presidential campaigns with direct criticism of the former President. Will it work? Plus, relatively unknown North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum jumps into the race focusing on the economy, energy and national security. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Flooding between Russian invaders and Ukrainian defenders might complicate any counteroffensive, to say nothing of the humanitarian disaster. Plus, Mitch McConnell and Kevin McCarthy spar over whether supplemental military funds must fit under the debt-ceiling deal's spending caps. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Republican presidential contest gets new entrants, but what do the former Vice President and New Jersey Governor bring? Plus, New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu declines to run, while urging the GOP to unite around a candidate who can beat Donald Trump. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The White House is working hard to persuade the press that the President is fit and able to fulfill his duties, even as evidence builds that his capacities are declining. Many Democrats are now quietly wondering about the risks of another Biden campaign. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Justices rule 8-1 against the Teamsters, who allegedly called a strike intentionally when it could have wrecked Glacier Northwest's concrete-delivery trucks. Plus, the Democratic Senate votes for a resolution to undo Joe Biden's student debt-forgiveness plan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Speaker pushed the debt-ceiling bill through the House, winning policy victories from President Biden in the bargain. What does that herald for what the GOP can accomplish for the rest of this Congress?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the House prepares to vote on Kevin McCarthy's debt-ceiling bill, West Virginia Sen. Joe Manchin applauds a provision expediting the Mountain Valley Pipeline. Plus, a listener asks who got the better end of the negotiations, and Rep. Thomas Massie says he'll vote yes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe Biden and Speaker Kevin McCarthy make an agreement to avoid national default, raising the country's debt limit while restraining spending and adding work requirements to aid programs. Despite some GOP dissent, is this a deal that Republicans should pass? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the state Legislature moves on universal vouchers, Gov. Roy Cooper declares a "state of emergency" for public schools, but is it only a stunt to scare voters? Plus, Illinois ends a scholarship for low-income children, while allies of Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson outline an agenda. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Justices say 5-4 in Sackett v. EPA that federal regulations on the navigable "waters of the United States" don't reach a property with wetlands that are only distantly connected. Plus, the North American Electric Reliability Corporation warns about summer blackouts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Florida Governor jumped into the GOP presidential contest on Wednesday with a technical glitch on Twitter but a substantial record of accomplishment in the state. Can he wrest the nomination from Donald Trump?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Two years into Covid-19, New York had lost 5.3% of its population and San Francisco dropped 7.5%, according to new census figures. But if crime and disorder reign, big cities won't recover. Target now says "inventory shrinkage," including theft, costs it $500 million a year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe Biden announces the U.S. will support training Ukrainian pilots on F-16 fighter jets, only months after he said that was off the table. As Russia's invasion grinds on, why does the President always seem a step behind in giving Ukraine's defenders the weapons they need? And where is the war going on the ground, after grueling combat leaves Russia in control of Bakhmut? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The South Carolina Senator joined the 2024 Presidential contest with a message of optimism and expanding opportunity, a sharp contrast with Donald Trump's rhetoric of 'retribution.' What are his chances at getting the GOP nomination? Plus, Joe Biden raises the specter of the 14th Amendment to avoid a national default as he prepares to meet with Kevin McCarthy.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With a national default looming, President Biden cracks the door to accepting new work requirements in welfare programs, as Republican negotiators want, but there's still little progress on a broader deal. Plus, the Supreme Court lets the IRS demand bank records from innocent parties without any notice, and it won't hold Twitter or Google liable for ISIS attacks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How would presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy promote faster economic growth? Would he cut taxes, how would he influence the Federal Reserve, and why hasn't he been more critical of Donald Trump and his record as President? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many asset managers proxy vote for activist shareholder proposals, including to make Costco accountable for "deforestation" and force Home Depot to do a "racial equity audit." But with Vanguard taking a stand and BlackRock getting more skeptical, is the public ESG backlash having an effect? Plus, Baltimore sues Kia and Hyundai, saying their cars are too easy to steal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Special Counsel John Durham finishes his 306-page report on the FBI's 2016 investigation into Donald Trump and Russia. The document sheds more light on the flimsiness of the "Steele dossier," while arguing that the bureau opened the Trump inquiry without any real evidence. In response, some Republicans are saying it's past time to clean house at the FBI. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Florida Governor hit the first 2024 presidential caucus state on the weekend as he prepares to enter the race. Will his message of looking to the future and not the past resonate with voters? Plus, the stakes are high for the United States as Turkey's presidential election heads to a runoff later this month.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Republicans on the House Oversight Committee say that members of Joe Biden's family received millions of dollars from overseas entities in recent years, as the President continues to insist that everything was above board. Plus, the Supreme Court upholds a California law on pork production, which could lead other states to try to export their values in a similar fashion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sounding like the Donald Trump who appeared on CNN in 2016, the former President took the stage in front of a town hall audience filled with Republicans and undecided voters in New Hampshire. Will his non-committal answers on abortion appeal to primary voters, or will his potential GOP opponents see an opening to attack Trump on the Jan. 6 riot or his refusal to support Ukraine against Russia? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A New York jury finds Donald Trump liable for sexually abusing E. Jean Carroll in the 1990s. Did Trump's failure to testify affect the outcome, or what about his belligerent deposition, in which he doubled down on the "Access Hollywood" tape? How will his 2024 rivals for the GOP nomination respond to the verdict? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A committee created by California Governor Gavin Newsom and the state Legislature recommends that black American residents who are descendants of slaves receive cash payments as racial "reparations." But where will the money come from, and is it even legal? And will programs like this become a new progressive litmus test?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

An ABC-Washington Post poll finds that a majority of Americans disapprove of the job the President is doing and don't think he has the mental and physical ability to do the job. Do Democrats have to start thinking of an alternative for 2024? Plus, Biden meets Tuesday with Congressional leaders over the debt-ceiling. Any chance of a breakthrough? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The migrant crisis is about to enter a new phase, as pandemic expulsions end. But now that Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot and other big-city Democrats are warning this can't go on, does President Biden have political leeway to act? Plus listeners write in about the 2024 Senate map and the latest news on Clarence Thomas and Harlan Crow. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Federal Reserve raises interest rates for the tenth time in 11 months, and Chairman Powell says the banking panic is over. But investors are still punishing midsize banks after the First Republic failure. Plus, who'll blink first in the debt-limit showdown? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on Supreme Court "ethics" highlights what Democrats have in mind, including an open-ended process for "complaints" against the Justices that could look like an unending confirmation hearing. Plus, West Virginia Governor Jim Justice could help the GOP retake the Senate, if he can beat Sen. Joe Manchin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

First Republic Bank is seized by regulators and acquired by JPMorgan Chase. CEO Jamie Dimon says the banking crisis is over, but are there still economic vulnerabilities as interest rates rise? Plus, the Supreme Court agrees to hear a case that could overturn Chevron deference, a doctrine that has empowered regulators in the modern administrative state. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Senate Democrats plan a hearing to attack the ethics of Supreme Court Justices, despite no evidence that there's a problem. What's their real agenda? Plus, James Taranto joins the podcast to talk about his interview with Justice Samuel Alito, who says he thinks he knows who was behind the Dobbs decision leak.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The company files a lawsuit arguing that Florida violated its constitutional rights by retaliating after former CEO Bob Chapek spoke up against DeSantis's agenda. Does it have a credible legal claim to the deals it cut with the Reedy Creek Improvement District that surrounds Disney World? Or is this the kind of special carveout for a favored business that should be ended anyway? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy kept Republicans together in the House as the bill raising the debt ceiling was passed and now heads to the Senate. But how will Mitch McConnell and Chuck Schumer handle getting it to the President's desk, despite Joe Biden stating he will not negotiate with the Speaker? Plus, a disappointing report on first-quarter GDP growth points to an economic slowdown and a possible recession.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

She calls herself "pro-life" and "unapologetic," but Haley says Republicans must be realistic that federal abortion legislation cannot pass. Will GOP voters accept that message in 2024? Plus, the Supreme Court's ruling on the abortion pill mifepristone prompts a dissent from Justice Samuel Alito about the so-called shadow docket. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a video featuring images of the Jan. 6 riot and a reference to "MAGA extremists," President Biden announces his reelection campaign, but voters might be skeptical of his age, track record, and running mate Kamala Harris. Plus, Donald Trump attacks Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis using left-wing talking points. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A deposition transcript released by the House Judiciary and Intelligence committees reveals that the Biden campaign in 2020 helped spur an open letter signed by former intelligence officials claiming the Hunter Biden laptop story had the "earmarks" of Russian disinformation. Will anyone pay a price for that deception, and how much has it hurt the credibility of the press and the intelligence services? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The press raises more questions about Justice Clarence Thomas's relationship with Harlan Crow, who reportedly bought some family properties in Georgia for $133,000. Thomas will amend his financial disclosure, and Sen. Dick Durbin wants testimony from Chief Justice John Roberts, but is this a real threat of corruption? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The House GOP officially introduced their plan for raising the debt ceiling, but President Biden called it "wacko" and still refuses to negotiate. Can the GOP stay united and force the President to make a deal? Plus, Paul Gigot gives an update on Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who remains unjustly imprisoned by Russia.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Florida Governor jokes about building a prison next to Disney World, as Donald Trump denounces this feud as a political stunt that will hurt the state's economy. Plus, the Supreme Court takes up Groff v. DeJoy, a case about a USPS mail carrier who asked for a religious accommodation to avoid working on Sundays. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chairman Jim Jordan took the House Judiciary Committee on the road to New York City to look at Manhattan D.A. Alvin Bragg's record on crime. What did we learn from the feisty hearing? Plus, Mitch McConnell and John Fetterman returned to the Senate chamber as Republicans gear up to block a temporary replacement for Dianne Feinstein on the Senate Judiciary Committee.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The House Speaker lays out the House GOP's offer to President Biden in return for voting to raise the debt ceiling. But Biden still refuses to negotiate, which will test whether McCarthy can keep his caucus together as the borrowing limit nears.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Health issues have kept 89-year-old Sen. Dianne Feinstein out of Washington, and some Democrats now want her to resign so President Biden's judicial nominees can get confirmed. But what about Biden's own age questions? Plus, the Congressional Budget Office says the deficit over the past six months was $1.1 trillion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The national debate over abortion continues to play out in the courts as the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals overturns a national injunction and keeps the drug mifepristone on the market. Plus, Governor Ron DeSantis says he will sign Florida's 'heartbeat bill' that would ban most abortions after six weeks. Will that help or hurt his possible presidential campaign? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Another campaign against Justice Clarence Thomas is afoot, this time citing his friendship with Texas billionaire Harlan Crow. Justice Thomas has reportedly spent time on Crow's ranch, yacht, resort and private jet, but without an apparent conflict of interest. Plus, Sen. Tim Scott launches an exploratory committee for President in 2024 with a welcome message of GOP optimism. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After seizing the floor with a bullhorn to demand gun control, Reps. Justin Jones and Justin Pearson are booted from office, although the Nashville Metro Council has already reappointed Jones. Was their removal too strong a punishment, and what does President Biden mean when he calls it "undemocratic"? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk's national injunction on the drug mifepristone seems destined for the Supreme Court after the decision riles up both sides of the political debate on abortion. Plus, some Democrats are encouraging the Biden administration to simply ignore the ruling, defying a lawful order and creating a dangerous precedent. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The White House publishes a 12-page document blaming President Trump for the American military's hasty withdrawal in 2021 under Taliban control, but what parts of the story does that leave out? Plus, the job market cools, with the economy in March posting the smallest net employment gain in two years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A bipartisan group of House Members led by Kevin McCarthy met with Tsai Ing-wen Wednesday on U.S. soil, in a move that even former Speaker Nancy Pelosi said should be “commended.” Plus, North Carolina Democrat Tricia Cotham switches parties and joins the Republican caucus, resulting in a GOP supermajority that could override the Democratic governor's veto. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With his indictment of Trump, the Manhattan district attorney will have to prove that the former President falsified business records to conceal another crime. But the DA isn't clear about what the other crime is. Plus, the left wins big in Chicago and Wisconsin, and the election in the Badger State is a warning to Republicans. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While opposing crowds gathered in lower Manhattan today, Donald Trump appeared in court to plead his innocence to 34 felony counts, after Alvin Bragg became the first DA to charge a former President with a crime. Plus, Republican Asa Hutchinson unofficially announces his run for President and gives his thoughts on what he would do to bring the country together and why Donald Trump should withdraw from the 2024 election. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Two Democrats with different governing philosophies square off for mayor of Chicago, with crime at the top of voter concerns, and a contest for a swing seat on the Wisconsin Supreme Court could have national implications. Plus, the world is becoming more dangerous for journalists as Russia arrests The Wall Street Journal’s Evan Gershkovich on a false accusation of espionage. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg has opened Pandora's box with his unprecedented indictment of Donald Trump, a first in U.S. history. Reports have Trump facing about 30 charges, but the evidence is yet to come. What does this mean for the 2024 Presidential race, especially Trump's rivals for the Republican nomination? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Biden takes a shot at Benjamin Netanyahu even after the Prime Minister had paused his controversial judicial reform in a search for compromise with the opposition. Is Biden trying to topple Israel's new government? Plus, Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen's visit to the United States may include a meeting with Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy, much to the consternation of China.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

House Republicans make a push for H.R.1, the Lower Energy Costs Act, which Rep. Steve Scalise says will help make the U.S. less dependent on foreign oil. But can pieces of this legislation get through the Democratic Senate, and will Joe Manchin secure his permitting reform? Plus, Joe Biden changes course and approves the Willow drilling project in Alaska. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Judge Kyle Duncan’s speech at Stanford Law School was met with not merely student protests, but prepared remarks from a diversity dean, Tirien Steinbach. The law school's dean, Jenny Martinez, released a letter in response, but is she taking a tough enough line, and what does this incident say about America's future elite lawyers? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The FDIC found a buyer for Silicon Valley Bank's assets after its spectacular collapse in First Citizens BancShares, and Fed chairman Jerome Powell has vowed to look into the supervisors and regulatory policies to prevent this from happening again. But where does the blame truly belong, and do all signs point to a recession later this year?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After criticism for calling Russia's war a "territorial dispute," the Florida Governor and potential 2024 contender adds some nuance. But has he offered a clearer picture of what President DeSantis's foreign policy would look like? Plus, the House GOP suggests it wants to investigate Manhattan D.A. Alvin Bragg's pursuit of an indictment against Donald Trump. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Potomac Watch, Paul Gigot speaks with political scientist Ruy Teixeira about the political implications of an indictment against Donald Trump, why an emerging Democratic majority in Washington never materialized, and why Joe Biden has governed from the left.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The first veto of Joe Biden's presidency gives retirement-fund managers more freedom to indulge in politicized investment decisions. But why are social-justice and climate-change funds getting priority over those that might yield higher returns? Plus, the White House and Democrats take aim at the Freedom Caucus' budget blueprint to reign in government spending.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After UBS rescued Credit Suisse in a billion-dollar takeover bid, Janet Yellen warns investors that bailouts could be on the way for even smaller banks. But are these regulatory actions causing their own risks and harm? Plus, the world is on edge as Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin meet this week, raising questions about that alliance and the war in Ukraine.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The former President signals he could be indicted this week on charges related to hush-money payments to his alleged mistress. What's behind Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's revival of a seven-year-old case, and what are the political implications? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen testified on Capitol Hill that the economy is strong and the U.S. banking system is sound, despite the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and the bailout of First Republic Bank. So what did the regulators miss, and what does Joe Biden plan to do about it? Plus, a decision on insulin prices by French drugmaker Sanofi could hold unexpected consequences for U.S. patients.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Despite his hawkish past, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis responded to a Fox News questionnaire by saying the war in Ukraine was not a vital U.S. interest. Was this a mistake by someone relatively new to the world of foreign affairs, and can it be fixed by the time he potentially launches a Presidential campaign? Plus, Donald Trump says he could end the Russia/Ukraine conflict in a day, and Mike Pence believes supporting Ukraine is part of the conservative tradition of Ronald Reagan.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

News reports suggest that Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg might be planning to indict Donald Trump for falsifying business records related to his hush money to Stormy Daniels in 2016. Could prosecutors be stretching the law to make this a felony, how would a criminal case affect the 2024 primaries, and could Trump run as a third-party candidate? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Potomac Watch Podcast, Paul Gigot speaks with former Pennsylvania Senate candidate David McCormick about how the seeds of the current bank panic were planted years ago and what Joe Biden can do about it, whether the country is heading in the wrong direction, the need to invest in technology, and if he is considering another run for Senate.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Biden tries to reassure financial markets about risks to the banking system, but investors weren't buying it Monday. What's behind the bank panic, and is Biden right to blame the Trump administration?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With the FBI raising concerns about national security, the White House asks Congress for authority to block the Chinese social-media app from the U.S. Plus, the Senate votes 81-14 to stop an overhaul of the criminal code in Washington, D.C., with many Democrats crossing the aisle, wary of appearing soft on crime in the runup to 2024. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The President's fiscal 2024 budget proposal raises taxes far and wide, setting up a battle with Republicans in Congress. What does it say about his 2024 re-election strategy? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

West Virginia reduces its income taxes, as Gov. Jim Justice eyes a challenge to Sen. Joe Manchin. North Dakota could adopt a flat tax, which Gov. Doug Burgum says would help the state compete for oil workers. And Michiganders could get a tax cut, too, despite the best efforts of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. Plus, a plan to adapt subway service to post-Covid realities is blocked by New York City's transit union. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The President commemorates the "Bloody Sunday" civil-rights march, while using his speech for partisan ends. But what's the reality of the Supreme Court's jurisprudence on the Voting Rights Act, and did the 2022 midterms support the Democratic claims abouts voting laws in states like Georgia? Plus, Biden teases his 2024 budget by proposing a tax increase for Medicare. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As he considers a run for the White House, the Florida Governor offers his Sunshine State record on Covid, education and more as a model for Washington. Plus, Donald Trump shows in his CPAC speech that he has DeSantis on his mind. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Two federal agencies, the Energy Department and the FBI, reignite the debate over whether the Covid-19 pandemic began naturally or whether the virus escaped from a Wuhan lab. The White House says there's no consensus in the intelligence community, but why was the lab-leak theory dismissed for so long, and are we any closer to finding the truth? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

During a primetime opening hearing, the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, led by Rep. Mike Gallagher, began a wide-ranging investigation into potential threats from China, including surveillance and threats of impending war. So what does this committee hope to accomplish? Plus, the Senate approves a measure to overturn a Biden administration ESG rule.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chicago voters fire Mayor Lori Lightfoot, but their next leader will depend on an April runoff. Might Chicago become another example of a blue city that is fed up with crime and dysfunction? Plus, Congress considers whether to override bills by the D.C. Council that would lower criminal penalties in Washington and let noncitizens vote in local elections. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Justices take up Joe Biden's plan to wipe out billions of dollars in student debt, with sparring on the "major questions doctrine" and whether the opponents have legal standing to sue. Meantime, the Commerce Department puts a child care mandate on semiconductor companies that receive federal funding from the Chips Act.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot could lose her bid for re-election as rising crime has voters looking closely at her challengers. Plus, the race for a seat on the Wisconsin Supreme Court has implications for former Gov. Scott Walker's reforms and for national Republicans.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Foreperson Emily Kohrs gives several interviews revealing details from the Georgia grand jury that investigated 2020 election interference. How much does this taint the state's investigation of Donald Trump's conduct? Plus, the Federal Reserve's favorite price metric, the PCE, shows the inflation beast hasn't yet been slain. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pete Buttigieg finally visited the site of a major train derailment in rural Ohio, while Donald Trump arrived on the scene with promises of clean water for those he says were forgotten by the current administration. Did Joe Biden make a mistake by not going to the region himself? Plus, tech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy enters the 2024 race for President as Sen. Tim Scott gives a preview of his own possible ambitions in Iowa.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Under a law called Section 230, internet platforms aren't liable for what their users upload, but does that immunity also protect the algorithms that sort and display content? The High Court considers that question in a case alleging that YouTube's recommendation engine spread the messages of the terrorist group ISIS, though some Justices seem to think changing the status quo is a job for Congress, not the courts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the one-year anniversary of Russia's invasion nears, President Biden makes a surprise visit to Kyiv, with additional remarks in Poland. What's the importance of his appearance, and what's in the aid package he announced? Plus, Ron DeSantis says Ukraine shouldn't get a "blank check," as Vladimir Putin suspends the New Start nuclear arms treaty. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Paul Gigot speaks with author Philip K. Howard about how public unions have created a lack of accountability and an "anti-merit" system in government, and how legal challenges are needed to restore democratic government that works.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Biden finally addresses the American people about the mysterious objects and the Chinese spy balloon shot down over North America over the past two weeks. But what did we learn? Plus, Joe Biden gets a physical that declares him "fit to serve," but once again raises the question about the age and cognitive fitness of future Presidential candidates.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a partial report released by the judge in the investigation into Donald Trump's attempt in Georgia to overturn the 2020 election, the grand jury recommended possible perjury indictments for some unidentified witnesses in the probe. Plus, the Congressional Budget Office's annual budget review shows how much government has grown under Joe Biden.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Former U.N. Ambassador and South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley formally enters the 2024 Presidential race with a message of positivity, calling for a new generation of Republicans to lead. What bigger message will she bring to challenge Donald Trump and possibly Ron DeSantis? Plus, new numbers show inflation has slowed, but is still stubbornly dogging home buyers and consumers.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After announcing a plan to create the School of Civic Life and Leadership--dedicated to free inquiry--the University of North Carolina faces a threat to its accreditation. Plus, Joe Biden used his State of the Union to take on so-called "junk fees," but the regulatory assault could be more harmful to consumers than he expects.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the fourth time in eight days, U.S. fighter jets were ordered to destroy various flying objects discovered in U.S. airspace. While Democrats and Republicans debate their intent, what do the presence of Chinese balloons and other aircraft say about our national security? Plus, Mitch McConnell and Rick Scott are taking sides about the Republican message on Social Security and Medicare.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe Biden orders the Pentagon to take out a flying object near Alaska, a sign of increased vigilance since a Chinese spy balloon entered the U.S. last week. Should the President be more forthright about that balloon's capabilities, and is this a wakeup call about China? Plus, Biden holds a rally in Florida and calls out Gov. Ron DeSantis by name, a sign that the 2024 race is beginning. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why is Joe Biden picking a fight on Medicare and Social Security, and why hasn't his agenda changed now that Republicans hold half of Congress? The answer lies in his re-election strategy, which was hiding in plain sight in his State of the Union address. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe Biden's speech Tuesday was a raucous affair, with cheers and jeers that called to mind the British House of Commons. What the President left out, though, was any compromise agenda that he thinks can actually pass a divided Congress. Plus, newly elected Arkansas Governor Sarah Sanders gives a GOP response that focuses more on culture than policy.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nearly half of states have lowered their income-tax rates, or are now moving to do so, within a period of only a few years. What's causing this trend, and if federal Covid-19 money is part of the story, how are Governors strategizing to avoid a revenue crunch once those funds end? Plus, Joe Biden prepares to deliver the State of the Union address, with no signs that he will change course on the economy or Ukraine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

An F-22 jet fighter shot down a Chinese surveillance balloon on Saturday on President Biden's orders. But many questions remain about the episode, including: When did the White House first learn that the balloon had crossed into U.S. airspace, did it raise the issue with Beijing, and how did the Chinese respond? Plus, Democrats rework their 2024 presidential primary calendar to help the President. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jobs growth pushes the unemployment rate down to 3.4%, the lowest since 1969, but with inflation still a problem, President Joe Biden and Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell aren't out of the woods yet. Plus, the GOP House votes to remove Ilhan Omar from the Foreign Affairs Committee, which Speaker Kevin McCarthy says isn't merely a tit for tat. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell raises interest rates again, but markets cheer. Is the economy doing much better than expected, leaving open the possibility of escaping a recession? Plus, the College Board changes its African-American Studies AP course, vindicating Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis's criticism.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Joe Biden and Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy sit down face to face to discuss spending, debt, and an impending U.S. default. What does each side want, and is real negotiation in the works? Plus, the Justice Department searches Biden’s vacation home in Rehoboth Beach to look for classified documents.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe Biden tells reporters that he won't be sending F-16 jet fighters to Ukraine, but the U.S. previously said the same thing about Abrams tanks, before the White House changed its mind under pressure from European allies. Plus, new IRS data says the top 1% of Americans pay 42% of the country's income taxes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The release of the video showing the arrest and beating of Tyre Nichols, and the subsequent charges of second-degree murder for the five officers involved, have increased calls for police reform. Can the Senate finally put together a plan despite failing in the past? Plus, Donald Trump visits two primary states over the weekend as he runs for president again, but the reception was underwhelming. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Florida rejects an Advanced Placement course on African-American Studies, which Gov. Ron DeSantis says is full of political indoctrination and Critical Race Theory, or CRT. Does he have a point about the College Board's class design, and is school choice a solution for a divided nation? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The U.S. economy rose 2.9% in the last quarter, which seems like good news, but hints at a lack of sustainability below the surface. Plus, Kevin McCarthy signals he will not support a consumption tax favored by some in his party, and the political world braces for Donald Trump's return to Facebook.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Germany is joining other European nations, as well as the United States, in sending more tanks to Ukraine to fight off a possible new offensive by Russia. So what took them so long to commit, and was the U.S. pledge for more aid the tipping point for German Chancellor Olaf Scholz? Plus, Mike Pence hands over classified documents found in his home, and a listener asks about the U.N.'s role in the Ukraine/Russia conflict.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With Russian troops expected to go on offense soon, some NATO allies want to provide Leopard 2 tanks to Ukraine, but Germany is saying no unless the U.S. also sends its Abrams tanks. What explains the German reluctance, and should President Biden agree to offer Ukraine some U.S. armor? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A Justice Department search of Joe Biden's home in Delaware finds another set of material with classification markings, as other Democrats begin to break from defending his actions. Plus, former Covid czar Jeff Zients could be the White House's next chief of staff, despite spending a career in business and not politics.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

An internal investigation, including interviews with nearly 100 Supreme Court staff, has failed to discover who leaked the draft of Justice Samuel Alito's Dobbs abortion decision, while revealing how lax security protocols let it happen. Plus, the share of the workforce that's unionized drops to the lowest on record. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The stakes are rising as the Ukraine war nears its first anniversary, and the West faces crucial decisions about how much military aid to provide and whether to let Ukraine expand its target to Russian territory. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Striking ambulance drivers and four-hour ER waits are prompting calls to reform Britain's National Health Service, as Prime Minister Rishi Sunak acknowledges that he has sometimes gone outside the system for his own medical care. Plus, China's population falls for the first time in decades, after its old one-child policy succeeded all too well. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen says the government will hit its borrowing ceiling this week, and House Republicans are already promising a fight over lifting it. But can Speaker Kevin McCarthy get President Biden to negotiate, since this is money Congress has already agreed to spend? And how much leverage does the GOP really have? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe Biden and Donald Trump both now have special prosecutors investigating their handling of classified material. That puts Attorney General Merrick Garland in the middle of two highly political inquiries as the 2024 presidential race nears, but is this really in the country's best interest? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After an FAA failure cancels 1,900 flights, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg calls it a "glitch," but maybe these systems would be better if they weren't run by the government. Plus, a member of the Consumer Product Safety Commission raises the idea of banning gas stoves, prompting outrage from America's kitchens. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe Biden started his day by announcing U.S. inflation had slowed for the sixth straight month and touting other positive signs for the economy. But by mid-afternoon, Attorney General Merrick Garland had appointed a special counsel to investigate the mishandling of classified documents after another stash was discovered in the garage (next to the Corvette) at the President's private residence.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Days before the November elections, about 10 documents marked as classified were discovered at a private office once used by Joe Biden. As the Justice Department investigates, how will this affect its inquiry into the classified material that the FBI seized from Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate? Plus, listeners react to Joe Biden's latest student loan forgiveness policy.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe Biden's proposal to erase $10,000 in student loans per person is on hold at the Supreme Court, but the Education Department is now moving to wipe out more debt via income-based repayment plans. Won't this give colleges an incentive to raise tuition and offer marginal degrees, and will these policies prove popular, or is there an economic and generational divide? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The new House Speaker cut many deals with conservatives to get the job, but they could limit his ability to govern. One problem: Defense is teed up for budget cuts. Plus, Joe Biden finally visits the U.S.-Mexico border, but will any policy changes come of it? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Amid political pressure and a pending Supreme Court case on Title 42, Joe Biden is going to El Paso and tweaking America's immigration policies, but will this be enough to stop the crisis at the border? Plus, Kevin McCarthy still isn't Speaker of the House after 13 ballots, but the momentum has turned his way. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After a tenth vote and reports of possible concessions to those preventing his rise to Speaker, Kevin McCarthy is still short of the votes he needs. Has McCarthy already made too many concessions that would undermine his ability to do the job? Plus, Gov. Ron DeSantis gives an inaugural address to show Washington what it can learn from Florida.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kevin McCarthy still can't get to 218, yet his Republican challengers haven't gained much ground either, after nominating Florida Rep. Byron Donalds. Does the GOP have an alternate candidate that it can rally around to end the stalemate, and could that person come from outside Congress? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Republican House spends its first day on multiple votes for Speaker, and still Kevin McCarthy can't muster a majority. But what do the GOP dissenters actually want, and do they have another option for Speaker who can win 218 votes? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eighty-two people in Ohio, most of them unvaccinated children, have contracted the measles, as a new survey suggests the Covid-19 pandemic has increased vaccine hesitancy. Plus, House Democrats finally release Donald Trump's tax returns, but do the initial headlines support their political narrative? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From the war in Ukraine to an historic Supreme Court term, soaring inflation and record spending by Congress, Potomac Watch looks at the biggest stories of 2022, and what they mean for 2023.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Expulsions at the U.S.-Mexico border under Title 42 will continue, as the Supreme Court agrees to hear a related case in February. Does this delay give Joe Biden a chance to put in place a plan for stopping illegal immigrants? Plus, the Census Bureau releases data showing that blue states like California are losing population, while red states like Florida are growing, and it isn't merely because of the weather. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A brutal winter storm puts the U.S. power grid to the test, as natural gas is diverted to heating, forcing utilities to beg for customers to turn off lights and appliances. Plus, while sales of electric vehicles are on the rise, studies show that their range falls precipitously when the temperature drops. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 845-page report targets Donald Trump as the man responsible for the Capitol riot on Jan. 6, 2021, but does it have the evidence to prove he committed a crime? Plus, the 117th Congress comes to a close with another giant last-minute spending bill that few Members will have read. Why did 18 GOP Senators help Democrats pass it?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In an address to Congress, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expresses gratitude for U.S. aid, which he says isn't charity but an investment in security from Russian aggression. Plus, the House Ways and Mean Committee votes to release Donald Trump's tax returns, another broken norm and bad precedent. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Expulsions at the U.S.-Mexico border under Covid-19 pandemic rules can't go on forever, though the Supreme Court's intervention has bought a little extra time. What will happen when the policy expires, and does Joe Biden have a plan? Plus, the omnibus spending bill includes money for salmon, bees, plankton and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With lawmakers eager to head home for the holidays, Congress unveils an omnibus spending package that must be seen to be believed. Besides a $1.7 trillion price tag, the bill includes changes to the Electoral Count Act, aid for Ukraine, a ban on TikTok on government devices, tweaks to Medicaid rules, and new FDA powers over cosmetics. Is this really how Congress should be doing business? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

During its final public hearing, the Jan. 6 Committee recommended the Department of Justice criminally prosecute Donald Trump on four charges related to his attempt to overturn the 2020 election. But is there enough evidence that he actually committed a crime? Plus, the Committee weighs what to do with GOP House members who defied their subpoenas, and the House Ways and Means Committee could create unintended consequences by releasing Donald Trump's taxes.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

China's control over the social-media app TikTok gets new attention, as the Senate passes a bill to ban it on government devices. Meantime, Sen. Marco Rubio wants to stop TikTok from operating in the U.S. entirely. Plus, the Biden administration debates sending Patriot missile systems to Ukraine to defend against further attacks from Vladimir Putin.     Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Biden administration announces that a nuclear fusion experiment has produced a net energy gain for the first time, but it could take decades to practically generate electricity this way. Does this highlight, though, a tradeoff between spending on research and funding for green subsidies, such as electric vehicle tax breaks? Plus, the European Union pushes forward with a carbon border tariff. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lawmakers are drawing up a $1.7 trillion framework, with a looming Friday deadline to fund the government. But what's the GOP's best strategy here? Sen. Mitch McConnell seems broadly supportive of the omnibus, while Rep. Kevin McCarthy is urging Republicans to delay any long-term spending package until they take control of the House in January. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What will the Federal Reserve do next? Consumer prices in November rose 7.1%, year over year, and the big question is whether this inflation is burrowing into the economy. Plus, Sam Bankman-Fried is indicted on fraud charges, while FTX's new CEO John Ray testifies on Capitol Hill to explain how the crypto exchange collapsed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Elon Musk continues to release documents on Twitter's content suppression. What are the First Amendment implications, and will some media outlets ever cover the story? Plus, why can't Kevin McCarthy gather the voters to become the next Speaker of the House? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

An $858 billion National Defense Authorization Act, or NDAA, passes the House, and it includes a provision to repeal the Pentagon's Covid-19 vaccine mandate for U.S. troops. Plus, Kyrsten Sinema waits until after the Georgia Senate runoff to announce she's leaving the Democratic Party to become an independent, possibly to avoid a primary challenger if she runs for re-election in 2024. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Justices take up Moore v. Harper, a case that asks who gets to draw North Carolina's new House districts: the Legislature or state judges? The implications of that question for 2024 probably aren't what you've heard, and New York's failed gerrymander explains why. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Supreme Court hears a case called 303 Creative, brought by Lorie Smith, a Colorado designer who says her Christian beliefs bar her from making websites for same-sex weddings. When does free speech trump antidiscrimination law? Plus, Sen. Raphael Warnock defeats Herschel Walker in the Georgia runoff, giving the Democrats a 51-49 Senate and a golden opportunity for Joe Biden.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's election day (again) in Georgia, as Sen. Raphael Warnock and Herschel Walker rally voters for the final contest of the 2022 midterms. Although Democrats will hold the Senate regardless of what happens, there's a real difference between a chamber that's split 50-50 and one that's 51-49. Will GOP voters head to the polls at Gov. Brian Kemp's urging, and what role is Donald Trump playing? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With the release of internal Twitter emails from 2020 through journalist Matt Taibbi, the new Twitter CEO exposes the platform's collaboration with Democrats and its censorship of the New York Post's Hunter Biden emails story. Plus, Donald Trump creates a distraction from the censorship issue by calling for the termination of the Constitution.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

She calls the gubernatorial election a "sham," but Kari Lake's loss to Katie Hobbs was big enough not to trigger a recount, and she widely underperformed other Republicans. That doesn't excuse Maricopa County's printer problems on Election Day, however. Plus, the Supreme Court agrees to hear a challenge to Joe Biden's student-loan forgiveness plan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With Republicans criticizing their own candidate for Speaker of the House while Democrats unify around their new leadership, the GOP isn't acting like it has the majority in the House next year. Why is Kevin McCarthy having a hard time getting the votes to lead his party? Plus, the House and Senate vote on bills to avoid an economy-crippling rail strike.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With Republicans set to take over the House in a little more than a month, Democrats want one more spending blowout, as a Dec. 16 deadline looms for funding the government. Meantime, lawmakers are also considering the Electoral Count Act, the National Defense Authorization Act (or NDAA), and maybe even the debt ceiling. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Contrary to his reputation as a pro-union Democrat, President Biden calls on Congress to impose a labor deal on America's railroads, as a way to avert an economically damaging strike. Plus, Georgia voters turn out in huge numbers for the Senate runoff between Raphael Warnock and Herschel Walker, while Donald Trump's absence could improve the GOP's chances. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Demonstrations have broken out in cities such as Beijing and Shanghai, as the government and state-run media tries to squash any opposition to China's zero-tolerance Covid policy. Plus, the U.S. eases sanctions on Venezuela as Chevron is allowed to pump oil in the country again.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From school applications to medical forms, Americans are often presented with checkboxes and asked to identify their racial backgrounds. But where did these six standard labels come from, and do they still describe an increasingly diverse country? Law professor David Bernstein answers those questions and more, as the public awaits the outcome of the Supreme Court's case on racial preferences at Harvard and the University of North Carolina. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Biden asks the Supreme Court to let him forgive billions of dollars in student debt, but until then his payment moratorium will continue through June 2023. How much longer can he use emergency powers for this, and might a Republican House do anything to stop it? Plus, Justice Samuel Alito is accused of prematurely revealing the outcome of a 2014 case, but the evidence seems thin.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ron DeSantis, Mike Pompeo, Nikki Haley, and other prominent Republicans speak at a GOP conference in Las Vegas, and they don't sound very cowed by President Trump's early announcement of a 2024 campaign. Plus, the White House quietly celebrates Joe Biden's 80th birthday, as questions continue about whether he plans to run for a second term. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Attorney General's decision won't give him the political insulation he wants, but does it mean an indictment is more likely? Plus, President Biden signs the U.S. up to pay climate reparations to the world's poor countries.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

NATO says the blast that killed two Polish farm workers probably came from a Ukrainian defense system, not a Russian strike, but Vladimir Putin ultimately bears responsibility for it. Plus, law schools at Yale and Harvard say they will no longer participate in annual rankings published by U.S. News and World Report, which might be an effort to get ahead of the Supreme Court's ruling on racial preferences.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nearly nine days after Election Day, Republicans in the House crossed the threshold needed to take control and paved the way for Kevin McCarthy to become the Speaker of the House. But will he be able to unite his party in a way Nancy Pelosi was able to unite Democrats, and what is her legacy as she steps down from the Democratic leadership?   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

His announcement speech at Mar-a-Lago featured the usual Trumpian boasts, plus deflection of blame for the GOP's failures last week on Election Day. But do Republican voters want Donald Trump back, especially given the rise of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis? And if Trump lost the GOP primary in 2024, would he sabotage the winner? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

She was probably Donald Trump's best chance for a "Stop the Steal" candidate to win on Election Day. But according to the exit polls, Kari Lake lost independent voters, lost moderates, and even lost 9% of Republicans. Plus, Joe Biden's student loan forgiveness plan flops in court again, this time at the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Democrats secured control of the Senate by winning 50 seats, and they still look to claim another in Georgia. But with control of the House still up in the air, could Kevin McCarthy face a challenge for Speaker of the House as Mitch McConnell tries to remain Minority Leader? Plus, Republicans' poor performance with independents was a major factor in Democrats gaining ground on Election Day.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A federal judge in Texas vacates President Biden's plan to forgive student debt, calling it an "unconstitutional exercise." But will this ruling hold up on appeal, or should the President's critics keep an eye on a similar case in the Eighth Circuit? Plus, the latest inflation report shows prices up 7.7% year over year, which is down slightly but still way too high for comfort. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Two days after Election Day, control of the House and Senate is still in doubt, as Donald Trump's hand-picked candidates mostly lost what could have been winnable seats. Plus, Joe Biden takes a victory lap despite possibly losing both chambers of Congress, and a listener asks who should campaign for Herschel Walker in the Georgia Senate runoff election.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Republicans started Election Day with hopes of winning the House and Senate by a decisive majority, but a strong GOP victory was nowhere to be found. What happened? Plus, Ron DeSantis emerges as the biggest election winner with a huge re-election victory as Florida Governor, even as Donald Trump's hand-picked GOP candidates lost big on Tuesday.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If Republicans take the House and possibly the Senate, as most projections and polling suggest, then a divided government will block President Biden's progressive ambitions. But how else would a GOP Congress change the dynamic in Washington? Plus, Donald Trump promises a big announcement on Nov. 15, putting himself front and center ahead of Election Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As Election Day nears, Republicans are well positioned to win the majority in the House, while the Senate remains a tossup. Is the GOP overestimating how successful their night will be, and are Democrats second-guessing their strategy a little too late? Plus, Donald Trump puts Ron DeSantis in his sights as he nears a decision on 2024, and Joe Biden claims it's time to shut down coal, much to the ire of Joe Manchin.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With the midterms only four days away, the focus is on the House and Senate, but what else is being decided on Election Day? Ballot initiatives across the country include questions on abortion, electric vehicles, ranked-choice voting and union power. Meantime, state Supreme Court Justices are facing voters in several places. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Six days before the November midterm elections, Joe Biden gives an address warning about the dangers to democracy but seems to only identify Republicans as the danger. Plus, the Federal Reserve raises its rates again despite Wall Street's growing concern that it's going too far, too fast.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Democrats thought the overturning of Roe v. Wade would drive soccer moms their way, but The Wall Street Journal's latest poll says white suburban women have moved 27 points against them since August. Top of mind for voters seems to be inflation and the economy, plus crime, as Joe Biden schedules a primetime address to discuss threats to democracy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Paul Gigot speaks with legal scholar Ilya Shapiro about the Supreme Court's oral arguments Monday on racial preferences in college admissions. What did we learn about how the Justices are leaning, and what would a ban on preferences mean for schools and other institutions? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With only eight days left before the 2022 November midterm elections, Kim Strassel speaks with Wall Street Journal Opinion columnist and political strategist Karl Rove about why Republicans seem to be surging in the closing days, the contests to pay attention to, and why the attack on Paul Pelosi should be condemned by both Republicans and Democrats.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After months of speculation and legal wrangling, Elon Musk closes the deal on Twitter and starts by firing its top executives. What does Musk mean when he says free speech should live on Twitter, and will Donald Trump fire up his old account? Plus, listeners ask why U.S. test scores are sliding and whether Republicans will continue supporting Ukraine if they win the midterm elections. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The President hails Thursday's report that the economy grew 2.6% in the third quarter, but will it be enough to overcome inflation and falling real incomes? Plus, what can Republicans accomplish if they retake Congress with Biden still in the White House? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When does early voting become too early? Nine million ballots for the 2022 election are already cast, sometimes before the candidates even had a chance to debate. In Pennsylvania, John Fetterman's health becomes a factor in his debate with Mehmet Oz. In Florida, Ron DeSantis is non-committal on finishing a four-year term. And in New York, Lee Zeldin and Kathy Hochul tangle over crime. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After trying to frame the 2022 midterms around abortion, Democrats are trying to shift their focus to issues like crime and the economy. But aren't Democratic policies on those issues part of the reason voters are unhappy? Plus, Joe Biden's latest gaffe about student loan forgiveness once again puts the president's role in November elections in the spotlight.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The National Assessment of Educational Progress announced the sharpest decline in math and reading test scores ever for fourth- and eighth-grade students. Is this another sign of the damage done by lockdowns, and how will this grim news play in the midterm elections? Plus, the U.K. has its third prime minister this year, as Rishi Sunak takes over after Liz Truss and Boris Johnson.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steve Bannon is sentenced to four months in prison for contempt of Congress after he defied a subpoena from the Jan. 6 committee. Hours later, Donald Trump is sent his own subpoena by the Jan. 6 inquiry. What's the precedent here on executive privilege and the Fifth Amendment? Plus, listeners send in questions on inflation relief checks and student loan forgiveness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After only 44 days in office, Liz Truss resigned as U.K. Prime Minister amid panic in her ruling Conservative Party. But was it her proposed tax cuts that caused her downfall, or was she a scapegoat for previous policy failures? Plus, Joe Biden tries to keep gas prices down in an effort to boost Democratic election hopes.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Three weeks from the midterm elections, the GOP's prospects for taking the House and Senate seem to be rising. President Biden pledges that his first bill in 2023 will be to protect abortion access, but the issues that are top of mind for voters include inflation and crime. One example is the race for Governor in New York, where Lee Zeldin is closing fast on incumbent Gov. Kathy Hochul. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With Xi Jinping poised this week to win another term as China's leader, the country's course seems set for confrontational nationalism, and perhaps an attempt to take Taiwan by force. But the U.S. seems woefully unprepared for a new Cold War, as the Pentagon misses recruitment targets and Congress focuses on social spending instead of buying ships and airplanes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jury deliberations began in the federal trial of Igor Danchenko for his part in the 2016 Russia collusion narrative and the Steele dossier. What have we learned from the evidence at trial, and what does special counsel John Durham do next? Plus, the new U.K. chancellor reverses Prime Minister Liz Truss's proposed tax cuts as the ruling Tories melt down politically.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the House inquiry into the Capitol riot begins to wrap up, Rep. Liz Cheney moves to subpoena testimony from Donald Trump. But is he unlikely to agree, and what new information does she expect he would provide? Plus, Joe Biden extends the Covid-19 public-health emergency, and listeners weigh in on the DACA program and whether answering pollsters is a patriotic duty.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The last consumer-price report before the November midterm election shows inflation is still running hot at 8.2%. What does it mean for the economy, for the Federal Reserve, and when voters go to the polls in four weeks?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Supreme Court hears a challenge to Proposition 12, a California law that says meat sold in the state must be produced under specific rules of animal confinement. But does the Constitution let California regulate farm production elsewhere? Plus, the Labor Department sets its sights on freelancers and the "gig economy." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Vladimir Putin launches missile strikes against civilian targets in Ukraine after the weekend explosion of a key bridge linking Crimea and Russia. But the attacks don't seem to have weakened Ukrainian resolve to fight, and the West is promising more military aid. Are we at a hinge point in the war?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With Republicans eager to take control of the Senate in the November 2022 midterms, the picture is still blurry. In which states does the GOP have the safest bets, and which ones are still in the air? Plus, will this election prove a referendum on Joe Biden, or could GOP "candidate quality" get in the way?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The White House says it will release millions of barrels in additional oil reserves, and it's reportedly thinking about loosening U.S. sanctions against Venezuela. But if President Biden wants more oil, why aren't American producers the answer? Plus, the September jobs report shows a cooling of the labor market, but should the Federal Reserve take its foot off the brake? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A federal appeals court rules that Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA, was unlawful when President Obama created it in 2012. What happens to the Dreamers already protected by the policy? Is this heading to the Supreme Court? And is there any hope in Congress for an immigration deal that both protects the Dreamers and fixes the border crisis? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Facing a trial in Delaware about his $44 billion deal, Elon Musk now says he will go through with the purchase. But what does he have in mind for Twitter? Meantime, the Supreme Court accepts a case touching on the Section 230 protections of internet sites, while bigger challenges percolate in Texas and Florida. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A federal judge rules that Georgia's voting system isn't unconstitutional, which further undermines Abrams's narrative that Gov. Brian Kemp stole the state's 2018 gubernatorial election using voter suppression. Plus, listeners weigh in on a potential congressional stock-trading ban, as well as the debate over the Supreme Court's legitimacy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Justices will hear cases on racial gerrymandering, interstate commerce, the administrative state, election law, and race-based admission preferences for college, among other issues that are sure to court controversy. Plus, an appreciation of the life and legal career of Judge Laurence Silberman. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

House Democrats unveil a bill to ban Congress and other federal officials from trading individual stocks, but would it also deter good people from running for public office or accepting presidential appointments? Plus, as Joe Biden trims his student-loan forgiveness plan to avoid another lawsuit, is he tacitly admitting that he's exceeding his legal authority? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While the world refuses to recognize Russia's annexation of four regions of Ukraine, the U.S. pledges $1.1 billion in additional military aid. But how long will it take for these weapons and other supplies to arrive? Plus, the panel discusses the political and climate implications of Hurricane Ian, the possible sabotage of the Nord Stream pipeline, and answers a listener's email about student-loan forgiveness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With a government shutdown looming, Sen. Joe Manchin withdraws his permitting proposal, while Sen. Chuck Schumer blames Republican obstruction. But does Manchin have only himself to blame? Plus, a lawsuit against Joe Biden's plan for student-loan forgiveness might solve the legal standing problem for the President's critics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Congress's process for counting the Electoral College has been broken for years, and this dysfunction helped produce the Jan. 6 riot. At long last, however, lawmakers might do something about it, as the House passes a bill to update the 1887 Electoral Count Act. How does this bill limit phony objections to election results? What does it say about the Vice President's role? And will the Senate get on board? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The West Virginia Senator's long-promised permitting bill will soon come to a vote, but he's struggling to find enough support to overcome a bipartisan filibuster. Why is he having so much trouble? Plus, Al Gore tries to engineer a coup against World Bank President David Malpass in the name of climate change.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

N.Y. Attorney General Letitia James makes good on a campaign promise by filing a civil lawsuit against former President Donald Trump and three of his children for overestimating property size. Is politics overshadowing the rule of law? Plus a Democratic campaign finance bill is blocked by Senate Republicans over concern it’s an attempt to limit political speech. Plus, listener emails. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What's next after Putin calls up of as many as 300,000 reservists? Plus, the Federal Reserve and other central banks keep raising interest rates. Is a recession inevitable? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Potomac Watch, Paul Gigot sits down with economist and former Senator Phil Gramm about his new book The Myth of American Inequality, why government has failed to truly address the poverty problem in America, and why Republicans could learn from Democrats' understanding of "nitty-gritty" economic programs.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When Joe Biden announced his plan for forgiving student debt, Democrats thought they had a winning issue to run on in the November midterm elections. But Republicans are exposing problems with the plan and polls show Americans think it is unfair. Plus, another Federal Reserve rate hike is on the horizon, but will it be enough?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

California Gov. Gavin Newsom has challenged Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis to a debate, which could be a preview of the 2024 presidential election. Could DeSantis use the opportunity to show why he'd be a better candidate than Donald Trump? Plus, Joe Biden says the pandemic is over, and Sen. Joe Manchin's permitting deal could be in jeopardy.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Justice Elena Kagan echoes Democratic criticisms of the Supreme Court, saying that judges lose legitimacy if they become political. But isn't that the argument against Roe v. Wade in the first place? Meantime, Chief Justice John Roberts points to the Constitution and asks, if the Court can't legitimately interpret it, then who will? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While Texas Governor Greg Abbott continues to send busloads of migrants to Democratic strongholds, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis flew another group of migrants into Martha's Vineyard. Is this purely a political stunt, or is it highlighting the problems of "sanctuary city" policies? Plus, the Biden administration makes a tentative deal to avert a railway strike that could have further damaged the economy.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

By proposing legislation to ban abortion nationwide at 15 weeks, with exceptions, Sen. Lindsey Graham might think he is drawing a line that Republicans can defend. But didn't conservatives argue for years after Roe v. Wade that abortion is a state issue? And won't this let Democrats change the subject from their own unpopular abortion proposals? Plus, Democrats get the Senate opponent they wanted in New Hampshire, as retired General Don Bolduc wins the GOP nomination. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New Hampshire's GOP Senate primary pits a mainstream candidate, Chuck Morse, against a retired general who has voiced conspiracy theories, Don Bolduc. So why are Democrats spending money to help Bolduc? Because they don't think he can beat Sen. Maggie Hassan. Plus, new figures show that consumer prices rose 8.3% year over year, which is not good news for Joe Biden.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are the major gains by Ukrainian troops against Russia in northeastern Ukraine a turning point in the seventh-month war? Vladimir Putin faces difficult choices, and he's capable of anything, including the use of a tactical nuclear weapon. How would NATO respond? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the United Kingdom mourns the loss of its seven-decade monarch, King Charles III pledges to follow in her footsteps. But can he rise to the occasion to become a unifying figure for the U.K. and the Commonwealth? Plus, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen goes to Michigan to defend President Biden’s economic record. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

To the surprise of many, Ukraine seems to be making gains after being at war with Russia for over six months. Could Vladimir Putin turn to more desperate measures in order to secure victory, including nuclear escalation? Plus, the U.S. pledges more financial and military aid to Ukraine, and leaders here and abroad try to come up with solutions to the worldwide energy crisis.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Governor Gavin Newsom signs a bill to create a state council that will oversee fast-food restaurants and might raise the minimum wage as high as $22 an hour. Could the unintended consequences include higher prices and restaurant closures? Plus, how does this fit into Newsom's rumored plans to run for President? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While Liz Truss takes over as prime minister of the United Kingdom, the country is facing economic woes and an energy crisis. Will she be able to deliver growth and make a success of Brexit, as was pledged by her predecessor, Boris Johnson? Plus, Europe could be in for a long winter as Russia indefinitely stops the Nord Stream 1 natural-gas pipeline. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New results from the National Assessment of Educational Progress, or NAEP, show the damage done by lockdowns and remote learning, but are public officials or teachers unions now admitting that they were wrong? Plus, listeners write in on Alaska's ranked-choice voting system, student loan forgiveness, and the erosion of trust in government. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

During an address in Philadelphia, Biden says he is trying to stop an extreme force that threatens American democracy. But is this just political rhetoric, meant to insert Donald Trump into the November midterms? Plus, do the August jobs numbers show an overall economic turnaround, or is a recession still a possibility?   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A new Wall Street Journal poll shows Democrats gaining ground as the fall campaign gets underway. What's behind the party's comeback, and what can Republicans do to counter it? Plus, Sarah Palin's defeat in an Alaska special election for the House highlights the impact of ranked-choice voting.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Justice Department explains in a court filing that the FBI's raid on Mar-a-Lago found more than 100 classified documents, including three that were apparently in Donald Trump's office, not the club's locked storage area. But does this get prosecutors closer to justifying a criminal indictment? Plus, Michigan voters might face an all-or-nothing referendum on abortion rights on the November ballot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Federal Trade Commission files a lawsuit to block Meta, formerly Facebook, from merging with a virtual-reality app developer. But is the government really defending fair competition here, or is the FTC merely skeptical of large companies, per se? Plus, Mark Zuckerberg explains Facebook's thinking in throttling the 2020 story about Hunter Biden's laptop.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Did the Federal Reserve Chairman’s speech on Friday finally convince investors that the central bank means what it says about getting inflation back down to 2%? Plus, Europe faces a winter energy crisis, with implications for Ukraine and lessons for America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A Florida judge releases the affidavit used to justify the FBI's raid on Mar-a-Lago, but how much new information does it provide the public, given the heavy redactions? Plus, the Potomac Watch team answers listener emails on the 2022 elections and President Joe Biden's plan to forgive student loans. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The President cancels student-loan debt for some 43 million Americans at a cost of half a trillion dollars. But even he had previously doubted he could do this without approval by Congress, which never appropriated a dime for it. Will it work politically for Democrats? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Democrats claim midterm election momentum after they win a special election for Congress in New York where Republicans were favored. Has the Supreme Court's decision on abortion rights changed the political climate enough for Democrats to hold the House in November? Plus, Joe Biden unilaterally forgives student debt without Congressional approval. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tuesday's House primary in Manhattan is a battle of East Side versus West Side, Rep. Jerry Nadler vs. Rep. Carolyn Maloney. If Democrats regret this choice, they have only themselves to blame. Meantime, Floridians consider whether Nikki Fried or Charlie Crist is best equipped to take on Gov. Ron DeSantis. Plus, a magistrate judge asks to see proposed redactions to the FBI affidavit related to the search of President Trump's Mar-a-Lago. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Republican candidates endorsed by Donald Trump won several of the primaries for Senate in key states. But now they're struggling in the general elections, and they're counting on the Super Pac affiliated with Senate Minority Leader McConnell to save their campaigns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rochelle Walensky, the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is using the agency's Covid-19 pandemic failures to justify an overhaul focused on "action" and "equity." But is this truly the kind of tough medicine that the CDC needs, or does the bungled response to monkeypox demonstrate that it hasn't learned its lessons? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Republican support for the former President seems to be rising since the FBI search of his home last week. Plus, former Trump Organization CFO Allen Weisselberg pleads guilty to tax fraud while working for the Trump Organization. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nineteen state Attorneys General tell the investing giant BlackRock that it seems to be pushing a social agenda over financial returns. How did ESG investing sneak so far into the economy, and is this the start of a backlash? Plus, Rep. Liz Cheney isn't going quietly after her primary loss in Wyoming, and will Alaska's ranked-choice voting system deliver a win to Sarah Palin?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tuesday's elections include the hotly anticipated primary in Wyoming between Rep. Liz Cheney and challenger Harriet Hageman, which has become a referendum on the Jan. 6 committee and Donald Trump. Plus, Sarah Palin looks for a comeback in Alaska amid debate about the state's new ranked-choice voting system, and the Inflation Reduction Act heads to Joe Biden's desk.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe Biden's chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan last August was a tragedy for that country and a humiliation for the U.S. A year later, what are the consequences of that decision? Did the damage to U.S. credibility undercut deterrence against Vladimir Putin as he contemplated his invasion of Ukraine?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The details of the search warrant on Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago home revealed little, and the list of items seized includes vague references to "Top Secret Documents." Are we any closer to getting the full story, and should Attorney General Merrick Garland say more? Plus, could this come down to a dispute over the President's broad power to declassify documents?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Justice Department and New York Attorney General accelerate their legal pursuit of the former President. But do they want to block him from running for President again, or keep the public focus on him so he stays the face of the GOP in 2022 and 2024?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Prices are up 8.5% from July 2021, the Labor Department says, but President Biden wants to talk about the monthly figure. So is inflation really cooling? Will Democrats take credit, though the House has yet to pass the Inflation Reduction Act? And might the Federal Reserve slow its pace on interest rates? Plus, Tim Michels wins the GOP gubernatorial nod in Wisconsin with the help of Donald Trump's endorsement, and Rep. Ilhan Omar narrowly beats a primary challenge in Minnesota.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A day after the FBI executed a search warrant on President Trump's home in Florida, there are still more questions than answers. What could have prompted such an unprecedented move by the Justice Department, and what are the ramifications if this proves to be prosecutorial overreach? Plus, the GOP primary in Wisconsin once again puts the focus on the certification of the 2020 election.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Democrats are celebrating their victory in passing the tax, climate and health bill through the Senate, hoping it will help them keep their majorities in Congress in November. But will Americans like the bill as they learn what's in it, and will really reduce inflation?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After more than a week of silence, Arizona Sen. Kyrsten Sinema says she won't block the reconciliation bill, but she does want changes, including a 1% tax on stock buybacks. Plus, the panel responds to listeners' emails on Republican primaries, inflation, and the proposed changes to the Electoral Count Act.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tensions remain high after Nancy Pelsoi's visit to Taiwan, including Chinese military exercises around the island and boycotts of Taiwanese goods. Did anything good come from the visit, and how ready is the U.S. military to defend Taiwan? Plus, the Senate approves the entry of Sweden and Finland into NATO, with an odd dissent from Sen. Josh Hawley.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tuesday's Republican primary between Kari Lake and Karrin Taylor Robson still isn't over, and it could get ugly if the margin ends up exceedingly narrow. Plus, how to parse primary results in Missouri and Michigan, an anti-abortion referendum fails in Kansas, and the devil is in the details when looking at the Schumer-Manchin permitting deal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With inflation near 9% and Joe Biden in the White House, Republicans seemed bullish about taking back the Senate in November's elections. But as voters in Arizona and Missouri go to the primary polls, the GOP's untested candidates elsewhere seem to be struggling. Plus, Donald Trump's and Mike Pence's dueling endorsements reveal the Republican divide. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The official Congressional scorekeeper finds the bill would raise taxes on nearly everyone. Will Arizona Sen. Kyrsten Sinema go along? Plus, moderate House Democrats might vote for a bill that doesn't have the state and local tax deductions they were insisting on.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

His tax-and-spend agreement with Sen. Chuck Schumer is delighting Democrats and frustrating Republicans, but what is Manchin getting in the bargain? The West Virginian says Democratic leaders have promised him reforms to federal permitting. But no details are public, and Joe Biden is already busy undoing Donald Trump's effort to streamline the National Environmental Policy Act of 1970. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The U.S. economy shrank for the second straight quarter, and should we call it a recession or stagflation? Plus, Senators Joe Manchin and Chuck Schumer make a deal on taxes and spending, making Senate Republicans look like chumps.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Speaker Nancy Pelosi hasn't confirmed reports that she plans to visit Taiwan, but Joe Biden, the U.S. military, and the Chinese foreign ministry are all weighing in on the idea. What could a visit like that accomplish, and how might China respond if it actually happens? Plus, Russia attacks the port in Odessa shortly after signing a grain deal with Ukraine, and two candidates remain in the race to replace Boris Johnson as British Prime Minister. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Six employees of Democratic members of Congress are arrested for occupying Sen. Chuck Schumer's office to campaign for climate-change legislation. Does this tactic make any sense, and is it the kind of thing that could get worse if congressional offices continue to unionize? Plus, what does it say about the Democratic Party's division between progressives and moderates?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

 The Federal Reserve is expected to raise interest rates again, even as the economy is slowing. Elizabeth Warren and Larry Summers square off on whether the Fed is right to keep tightening money. Who's right? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The House inquiry into the Capitol riot uses its final summer hearing to show that Donald Trump refused to send help once the violence began. What evidence did the committee reveal, and where is it going from here? Plus, does Steve Bannon's conviction for contempt of Congress raise the pressure on other witnesses to testify? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sen. Joe Manchin and Sen. Susan Collins unveiled their proposal to update the 1887 Electoral Count Act in the wake of the chaos on Jan. 6. Will the new legislation get the 60 votes needed to fix the antiquated law that's been exploited by both parties? Plus, Joe Biden tests positive for Covid-19 and a look at how a semiconductor bill is expanding in the Senate thanks to Sen. Chuck Schumer.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Under pressure from progressives, Joe Biden is weighing whether to declare a national emergency to fight climate change, as well as an emergency to protect abortion access. What powers do such declarations unlock, and would they be vulnerable to legal challenge? Plus, a legal gun owner stops a mass shooting in an Indiana mall, upending the political debate over gun control and the Supreme Court's rulings on the Second Amendment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Congress debates billions in subsidies for the semiconductor industry, ostensibly to prevent China from dominating the field. But isn't industrial policy a fool's errand, especially given the volatile nature of computer technology? Where is the Republican opposition to this bill? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With a controversial fist bump and claims of confronting Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman about the killing of Jamel Khashoggi, Joe Biden's visit to Saudi Arabia ended with criticism, mostly from his own party.  But was any progress made to end the world energy crisis? Plus, Sen. Bernie Sanders accuses Sen. Joe Manchin of "sabotaging" Joe Biden's agenda, but Manchin might be doing more good for Democrats than they realize.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After this month's 9.1% inflation figure, the West Virginia moderate says he won't support a reconciliation bill with climate spending and tax increases. But what does Manchin mean when he says he can still vote for a deal on prescription drugs? Plus, listeners write in with questions about codifying Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court leak, the Covid-19 emergency, and California Gov. Gavin Newsom's chances in 2024.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

During his first trip to the Middle East as President, Joe Biden's plan to keep a nuclear weapon out of the hands of Iran diplomatically is met with strong pushback from Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapid. Is a show of force the only solution? Plus, Joe Biden's energy policies have caused him to have to sit down with leaders in Saudi Arabia, despite the country's record on human rights and murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As inflation hits another 40-year high, the White House says the new figures are already "out of date." But how will they affect the Federal Reserve's thinking on interest rates, and is a recession with high unemployment required to get inflation under control, as the economist Larry Summers suggests? Plus, Chuck Schumer and Joe Manchin are still looking for a reconciliation deal for Democrats to approve. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Biden Administration reportedly plans to extend the Covid-19 public health emergency, which is currently set to end July 15. That means continued pandemic eligibility rules for Medicaid and food stamps, but the emergency has to end sometime, and the unemployment rate is 3.6%. Plus, Donald Trump weighs an early announcement of a 2024 presidential campaign, which could shake up the November midterms. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the latest twist in a long saga, Elon Musk abandons his plan to buy Twitter. What does that mean for the social-media site and its progressive censorship of alternative views? Plus, why Shinzo Abe, who was assassinated last week, was a great friend of America and the cause of freedom in the Pacific. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After announcing it would order Juul vaping products off the market, the Food and Drug Administration has stopped short. But it's hard to miss the contradiction in the scrutiny on vaping, as the country also liberalizes its marijuana laws. Plus, Joe Biden signs an executive order to protect access to abortion after the Supreme Court's reversal of Roe v. Wade.     Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After leading the historic Brexit movement and showing strong support for Ukraine after the invasion by Russia, Boris Johnson stepped down amid a swirl of controversy. But was it the lockdown party scandal that did him in, or was it his economic and energy policies? Plus, what can American conservatives learn from his fall?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

First it was the pandemic, then it was Vladimir Putin, and now President Biden is blaming greedy gas-station owners for high prices at the pump. When will he admit his own policies might be the problem? Plus, listeners write in with questions about Biden's age, the presidential prospects of California Gov. Gavin Newsom, and the party politics of abortion laws. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New York Governor Kathy Hochul signs new gun restrictions for "sensitive places," plus a "good moral character" standard for concealed-carry permits. But is the state flouting the Supreme Court's opinion in its gun ruling last month? Plus, the Marshal of the Court asks state and local officials to stop the protests outside the Justices' homes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The President is calling for an "exception" to the Senate's filibuster to codify abortion rights, and he previously said the same thing about voting legislation. Doesn't he think Republicans will return the favor when they retake power? Plus, the Supreme Court ends its term with rulings on the "Remain in Mexico" policy and Native American reservations in Oklahoma. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Supreme Court ruled 6-3 against the Environmental Protection Agency, saying it overstepped its authority in trying to limit emissions in the name of fighting climate change. So if this decision puts more power in the hands of lawmakers on Capitol Hill, why are Democrats like Chuck Schumer so vehemently criticizing it? Plus, Joe Biden heads to Europe to praise NATO's unity against Russia, and the panel answers a listener's email about presidential criticisms of the Supreme Court and the Dobbs leak.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

White House aide Cassidy Hutchinson testifies that President Trump knew members of the crowd were armed before the Capitol riot, but is the committee getting closer to showing that crimes were committed? Attorney General Merrick Garland has said he is watching closely, but unlike the committee's hearings, any trial would be an adversarial process with a vigorous defense. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Republican voters are choosing an opponent for Governor Kathy Hochul, but could blue New York really turn red? Plus Democrats meddle in GOP primaries in Illinois and Colorado, and the Supreme Court's opinion upholding a football coach's right to pray on the field could have major implications for church and state. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With the Supreme Court ruling in favor of religious schools in Maine and a football coach's right to pray in public, plus the historic overturning of Roe v. Wade, the conservative legal movement are winning cases at an unprecedented rate. So why now? And will Democrats plan on going as far as they can to fight these decisions, including threatening the impeachment of Justices?   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a historic 6-3 ruling, the Justices uphold Mississippi's ban on abortions after 15 weeks, while a 5-4 majority reverses Roe v. Wade to send abortion policy back to the states. President Biden responds that Congress could pass a national abortion law, but would that be unconstitutional? And will rallying the Democratic base on this issue upend the November elections? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a 6-3 decision led by Justice Clarence Thomas, the Supreme Court struck down a New York law on issuing concealed-weapons permits by saying it was in violation of the Second Amendment. So where does that leave Joe Biden and others who opposed the ruling? Plus, the Senate advances a bipartisan gun safety bill despite complaints from some Republicans, including Donald Trump.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Officials from Arizona and Georgia testify that Donald Trump's legal team provided no evidence in 2020 for his claims that the election had been stolen. So why does Trump continue to repeat disproven theories? Plus, the Supreme Court rules in favor of religious parents excluded from Maine's school-choice program. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Voters go to the polls in Virginia and Alabama, as a Republican Senate candidate in Missouri, former Gov. Eric Greitens, faces backlash for a "RINO hunting" ad. Plus, Joe Biden considers whether to call for a holiday on the 18.4-cent federal gas tax. But could that get through Congress, and with gas prices near $5 a gallon nationwide, would voters even give Biden credit for savings of 18.4 cents? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As Joe Biden's approval numbers sag, Democrats begin saying that his age means he should step aside in 2024. Why the sudden change, since this question was treated as taboo in 2020, and where would Democrats turn if Biden declined to run for re-election? Plus, Sarah Palin leads a 48-candidate field in a race for Alaska's only House seat.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As Donald Trump roars back at the House inquiry into the Capitol riot of Jan. 6, 2021, why isn't Congress moving more swiftly to head off a repeat by repealing the Electoral Count Act? Plus, why are investigators now seeking the testimony of Ginni Thomas, the wife of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The January 6th Committee examines how much pressure Donald Trump put on Mike Pence to overturn the results of the 2020 election. Plus, the Capitol Police casts doubts on claims from Democrats that Republicans led "reconnaissance tours" of the Capitol days before the riots, and the White House says oil companies have a "patriotic duty" to lower gas prices.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Faced with 8.6% inflation, the Federal Reserve raises interest rates by 75 basis points, the largest increase since 1994. But instead of acknowledging Washington's mistakes, Joe Biden continues to blame oil companies and Vladimir Putin for rising prices at the gas pump. Plus, Donald Trump's influence is tested by this week's primaries in South Carolina, as the GOP flips a Hispanic district in Texas.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Twenty Republicans and Democrats announce a framework for gun legislation in response to the school shooting in Uvalde, Texas. How does the plan balance the Second Amendment with proposals like expanded background checks and "red flag" laws? Plus, the House finally moves on a bill to increase security for the families of Supreme Court Justices, and a listener suggests one way President Biden could lower the temperature. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jillian Melchior from Kyiv and Adam O'Neal join Paul Gigot with the latest on Russia's artillery offensive that is gaining ground in eastern Ukraine. The country needs more missiles and artillery, which have been slow to arrive from the U.S. and Europe. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Consumer prices are up 8.6% since last year, with big numbers for food and energy, but also worrying "core" inflation. How long can Joe Biden keep blaming Russia for what he is still calling "Putin's price hike"? Plus, the House committee investigating the Jan. 6 Capitol riot makes its primetime debut with evidence against Donald Trump, but perhaps without achieving what Democrats hope. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When an armed man was arrested outside Brett Kavanaugh's home, many focused on elected officials who have contributed to creating such a volatile and dangerous political atmosphere. So why has the House not voted on a bill to protect the families of Supreme Court Justices, and why has the press underplayed the incident? Plus, the January 6 Committee's hearings begin in primetime with questions about what new information the American people will learn about that fateful day.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

San Francisco voters oust District Attorney Chesa Boudin, as Rick Caruso leads the race for Mayor of Los Angeles, pending a runoff with progressive Rep. Karen Bass. Is California ready for a more moderate direction, and could Rick Caruso be L.A.'s version of former New York Mayor Mike Bloomberg? Plus, average gas prices nationwide are hitting record highs, and new OPEC oil production is unlikely to help. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

San Francisco District Attorney Chesa Boudin faces a recall election, as ex-Republican Rick Caruso gains ground in the race for Mayor of Los Angeles. Is this the end of the progressive calls to "defund the police" and go easy on criminals? The panel also surveys other primaries, from Iowa to New Jersey. Plus, Dr. Mehmet Oz is finally declared the GOP nominee for Senate in Pennsylvania.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Potomac Watch's Paul Gigot speaks with Ilya Shapiro about his decision to resign as the executive director of Georgetown Law’s Center for the Constitution, despite being recently reinstated. Shapiro takes listeners inside the original decision to suspend him for an outspoken tweet, and takes a look at the upcoming Supreme Court decision which could alter the future of Roe v. Wade.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a televised speech, President Biden says the school shooting in Uvalde, Texas, should prompt the U.S. to ban "assault weapons," raise the purchase age to 21, expand background checks, and more. But where will courts draw the line on the Second Amendment, and what kind of compromise is possible in a 50-50 Senate? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the United Kingdom celebrates Queen Elizabeth's Platinum Jubilee, discussions about who will be next to ascend to the throne have begun. Plus, while Janet Yellen admits she underestimated the damage done by inflation, Joe Biden proposes a three-point plan to tackle the problem.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A Washington, D.C., jury acquits Hillary Clinton campaign lawyer Michael Sussmann of lying to the FBI. But how much did the trial by Special Counsel John Durham reveal about the attempt to discredit Donald Trump in 2016? Plus, parsing Joe Biden's muddled message on sending missiles to Ukraine, and responding to listener emails on the White House's plan to forgive student loans. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is the West losing interest in helping Ukraine stand up to Vladimir Putin's aggression? The European Union is imposing a ban on Russian oil imports. But President Biden says the U.S. won't send Ukraine any missiles that could strike Russian territory, and the tanks promised by Germany apparently haven't arrived. Plus, many Republicans in Congress voted against the latest aid package. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Federal courts are ruling on the laws that Florida and Texas passed last year to curb censorship on social-media sites. What are those judges saying about free speech and the First Amendment, and is this likely headed to the Supreme Court? Plus, Elon Musk casts new doubt on his deal to purchase Twitter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Congressional Budget Office releases a report showing that while tax revenues are booming, they aren't keeping up with Washington's appetite to spend money. What will it take to wake up Congress? Plus, Joe Biden reportedly plans to forgive $10,000 in federal student debt per borrower, leading a listener to ask if any student-loan reforms are on the way.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The horrific shooting that killed 19 children in Uvalde, Texas, has re-opened a debate over mental illness, safety precautions at schools, police readiness, and gun control. Plus, Beto O'Rourke uses the massacre to boost his campaign for Texas governor, and controversy surrounds the NRA convention scheduled for Houston on Friday.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Governor Brian Kemp and Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger easily triumphed over two Republican primary challengers who were endorsed by Donald Trump. Does that suggest Trump's influence over the GOP is waning, as voters move on from his claims about a stolen election in 2020? Plus, the panel discusses races in Texas and Alabama and responds to a listener email about what President Biden's overreach means for the November midterms.    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As voters go to the polls in Georgia, Vice President Mike Pence is rooting for incumbent Governor Brian Kemp, while President Donald Trump has strongly supported a Republican challenger, David Perdue. But the polls suggest GOP voters are no longer focused on Trump's 2020 loss, but on finding the best Republican who can beat Democrat Stacey Abrams in November. Plus, what to look for in Texas and Alabama as the primary results arrive. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On his Asian trip the President seems to suggest a change in U.S. policy, but the White House quickly walks it back. Plus, why did the Administration omit Taiwan from its new Indo-Pacific Economic Framework? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Trial testimony reveals that Hillary Clinton personally approved a plan to plant a false story about Russia's Alfa Bank and the Trump campaign in 2016. Plus, Donald Trump recommends Mehmet Oz declare victory before all the votes have been counted in Pennsylvania, and the contest between Georgia Governor Brian Kemp and David Perdue enters the homestretch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe Biden tries to end the nationwide baby formula shortage, but were government programs the cause of the crisis in the first place? Plus, a $40 billion aid package for Ukraine passes Congress, but a group of Republicans vote no. Were they right? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pennsylvania's hotly contested GOP Senate primary is still undecided, with Mehmet Oz and David McCormick potentially headed toward a recount. Could Donald Trump's endorsement have been the deciding factor? Plus, Pennsylvania Republicans nominate Doug Mastriano for Governor, while progressive candidates surge, and Rep. Madison Cawthorn loses after becoming plagued by scandal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michael Sussmann, charged with making a false statement to the FBI, goes to trial in federal court, the first case stemming from Special Counsel John Durham's probe into the 2016 Trump/Russia investigation. But if Sussmann duped the FBI, what does it say about how the bureau handled its business? Plus, Jeff Bezos picks a fight with President Biden over raising the corporate tax rate. Does the Amazon founder have a point about taxes not being the solution to inflation?     Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Years-old tweets, outside money groups and an endorsement from Donald Trump all are factors in a three-way race for the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate in Pennsylvania. So who will come out on top after Tuesday's primary: Kathy Barnette, David McCormick, or Dr. Oz? Plus, Republicans raise concerns about the electability of the frontrunner for the GOP nomination for Governor.     Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The stock market is on a rollercoaster, and traders of cryptocurrencies like bitcoin have watched $1 trillion in value disappear in six months. Is there a risk here of economic contagion, and is Jerome Powell less likely to blink now that he's secured a second term as Federal Reserve Chair? Plus, Rand Paul holds up $40 billion in aid to Ukraine, and the House Jan. 6 Committee subpoenas Republican Congressmen, including Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Democrats in the Senate fail to pass a bill expanding abortion, losing Joe Manchin in the process. Was the vote smart politics, and how is the abortion issue playing out inside and outside the Supreme Court? Plus, Finland and Sweden are poised to join NATO, which isn't what Vladimir Putin had in mind by invading Ukraine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The House of Representatives votes to let its staffers unionize. But how is this supposed to work in practice, and if Congress wants to retain and attract talented aides, why not simply give them a raise? Plus, the inflation picture doesn't improve for Joe Biden, and Elon Musk says Donald Trump's ban from Twitter was "morally wrong."  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With new inflation data coming this week, Joe Biden again points the finger at supply chain issues and the Russian invasion of Ukraine. But does he have any new ideas to ease inflation before the November elections, and why does he keep bringing up Republican Sen. Rick Scott? Plus, an Amazon warehouse on Staten Island, N.Y., votes down a plan for unionization.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After the leak of the Supreme Court draft opinion reversing Roe v. Wade, the political debate grows heated as demonstrators visit the homes of Justices and the Senate prepares to vote on a law that would override 50 state abortion laws. Plus, where does the war in Ukraine stand on what was supposed to be Vladimir Putin's victory day? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The conservative Supreme Court Justices who might overturn Roe v. Wade were asked about the 1973 precedent during their Senate confirmation hearings. What did they actually say, and how does it compare to the language that liberal Justices have used to parry questions about gun rights? Plus, with a mixed jobs report and the Federal Reserve raising rates, what are Americans to make of Joe Biden's economy? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Biden says the repeal of Roe v. Wade will lead to a string of lost rights for Americans. Is this accurate and a winning political strategy, and could Republican lawmakers on the state level feel the pressure to address abortion as they haven't before?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

J.D. Vance wins the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate in Ohio, showing that President Trump's endorsement still has weight for GOP voters. Yet Democratic candidate Rep. Tim Ryan, in contrast to others in his party, doesn't seem to think that running against Trumpism is a winning strategy. Plus, as the rhetoric around Roe v. Wade heats up, should the Supreme Court expedite its official ruling, instead of doing business as usual? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A leaked draft opinion by Justice Samuel Alito shows that the High Court might be preparing to strike down Roe v. Wade, which would return abortion policy to the states. How much can we read into this draft, which dates to February? Will the Court investigate the leak? And what could overturning Roe mean for the midterm elections? Plus, Ohio and Indiana hold primaries that will test Donald Trump's sway with Republican voters.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why is the Biden administration creating a Disinformation Governance Board, and will it promote more mistrust than it prevents? Plus, Nancy Pelosi leads a delegation to Ukraine as Joe Biden requests $33 billion in aid for the country to resist Russia's invasion.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With seven months to go before the November elections, Democrats want to shore up young voters by forgiving up to $50,000 a person in student loans. President Biden says he is considering it, although he has a lower dollar figure in mind. But is this even legal? And would it create a backlash from voters who didn't go to college at all, or who already worked hard to pay off their debt? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The economy shrank by 1.4% in the first quarter. Does it signal stagflation or a recession ahead? And how should the Federal Reserve respond? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As Putin halts natural gas supplies to Poland and Bulgaria, Europe needs to move fast to end its reliance on Russian fossil fuels. American frackers could potentially fill Europe's energy gap, but President Biden and Congress need to act if they want to increase U.S. exports anytime soon. Plus, Germany finally provides some heavy weapons to Ukraine, while a Russian general exposes Putin's larger military ambitions.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Justices hear oral arguments in Biden v. Texas, a case challenging the White House plan to end President Trump's "Remain in Mexico" policy for migrants. Meantime, Democrats are sprinting to oppose President Biden's proposal to stop Title 42 border expulsions. Plus, Elon Musk reaches a deal to buy Twitter, but the ramifications of the sale are yet to be seen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Republican leader wants to be the next Speaker of the House, but can he govern a fractious Republican caucus if the GOP takes the majority in November? One obstacle will be the demands of fealty from Donald Trump. Plus, the 2020 election takes center stage in a debate between Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp and challenger David Perdue.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Florida Legislature, at the urging of Gov. Ron DeSantis, has voted to end a special tax district that lets Disney World run its own government. It's a response to Disney's criticism of the state's "don't say gay" bill. But is this worrying political retaliation, a lesson for CEOs to stay out of politics, or maybe both? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don't discount the possibility that Vladimir Putin could drop a tactical nuclear weapon in Eastern Europe, the CIA director recently warned. So why does President Biden's budget propose to cancel a U.S. cruise missile that could launch a similar American nuclear weapon from a submarine? Plus, Joe Biden announces another $800 million of military aid for Ukraine.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As Russian forces escalate their offensive in Ukraine's Donbas region, Volodymyr Zelensky says the war would have been over already if allies had sent Ukraine the necessary weapons to win. Joe Biden has pledged more military aid, but is it too late? Plus, the runoff election in France between Emmanuel Macron and Marine Le Pen enters its final days.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A federal judge rules against the Centers for Disease Control's mask rule for airlines, trains and even Ubers. Will the Biden Administration appeal, or is it quietly relieved to have the policy ended? Plus, the Republican National Committee decides not to participate in debates hosted by the Commission on Presidential Debates, but this doesn't mean the end of candidates sparring on TV. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The White House decision to rescind Title 42, the Trump-era immigration policy, has Democrats running for political cover as border chaos spreads.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Biden Administration has approved another $800 million in military assistance to help Ukraine prepare for the next phase of Vladimir Putin's invasion. But will these weapons get into the right hands in time for them to be effective? Plus, Twitter enacts a "poison pill" provision in an effort to stop Elon Musk from buying out the social-media giant.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Despite strong job creation and low unemployment, Joe Biden's job approval keeps falling. Is soaring inflation the cause? Plus, Finland and Sweden consider joining NATO in reaction to Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Democratic Party is considering whether to change how it chooses presidential nominees. In part this is a response to the chaos of the 2020 Iowa caucuses, but Democrats also want earlier primaries in states that reflect the diversity of the party. Plus, Republicans are confident about making big gains in the 2022 midterm elections, but Mitch McConnell says don't underestimate the GOP's ability to mess things up. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Consumer prices are up 8.5% since last year, a four-decade high, and the White House is blaming Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine. But elevated inflation isn't limited to energy, and Joe Biden's plan to allow more sales of E15 gasoline, a higher-ethanol blend, is unlikely to make much difference. Plus, Elon Musk decides not to join the board of Twitter after all. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Emmanuel Macron will once again face a runoff against far-right candidate Marine Le Pen, but could inflation and the Russia-Ukraine conflict result in a different outcome than the one in 2017? Plus, Volodymyr Zelensky asks the U.S. and its allies for more military aid, and Donald Trump endorses television host Dr. Mehmet Oz for Senate, much to the chagrin of many of the former President's supporters.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Now that the billionaire Elon Musk owns a 9.2% stake and a seat on the board of Twitter, are changes coming to the social-media giant? Plus, Musk is at the top of the Forbes billionaires list, but the numbers show why Joe Biden's pledge to make them pay their "fair share" would only cover a fraction of the spending that progressives want. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Biden administration plans to end a Trump-era policy which turns away those trying to enter the country illegally at the border. Some Senate Democrats want an extension of Title 42 until the President comes up with a new policy, but does Joe Biden have one? Plus, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott wants to bus migrants to the U.S. Capitol and the panel discusses the lessons learned from Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson's confirmation to the Supreme Court.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Returning to the White House for the first time since 2017, Barack Obama stood with Joe Biden to celebrate the signing of the Affordable Care Act in 2010. But do his claims hold water that the law worked as intended, and why haven't Republicans offered a better alternative to the ACA? Plus, the Biden administration extends a freeze on repaying student loans.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With Mitt Romney, Lisa Murkowski and Susan Collins planning to support Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson, her confirmation to the Supreme Court seems secure. What's their strategy, and will this buy any Senate goodwill for the next Republican High Court nominee? Plus, a California judge blocks a law requiring diversity quotas for corporate boards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After evidence of atrocities committed by the Russian army surfaced in the town of Bucha, Ukraine, Joe Biden called for Vladimir Putin to face trial for war crimes. How will the horrific images change the West's response to the war, and what is Russia's new war strategy as its forces retreat from trying to take Kyiv?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With President Biden's poll numbers sagging, progressive Democrats think he should go big today to secure a victory in the November midterm elections. But what exactly do Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and others want Biden to do, and would ideas like forgiving student loans be popular? Plus, a judge rejects New York's gerrymander, as Tennessee changes its residency rules a week before the House filing deadline. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe Biden announced the release of up to 180 million barrels of oil reserve to tackle soaring gas prices. But is this a viable solution to what the administration is calling "Putin's price hike at the pump?" Plus, Democrats are calling for the resignation of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas over his wife's texts to Mark Meadows, and David Weil loses a confirmation vote for a position at the Department of Labor.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Federal judge David Carter has ruled that Donald Trump most likely criminally obstructed Congress on Jan. 6, 2021, the day of the Capitol riot. But does the burden of proof in a civil case like this suggest real legal jeopardy? Plus, Sen. Joe Manchin opposes Joe Biden's billionaire tax, and the panel answers a listener's email about whether Supreme Court nominee Ketanji Brown Jackson will be a reliably liberal jurist. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Biden unveils his 2023 budget proposal, including a "minimum tax" on billionaires that would treat their unrealized stock gains as income. But how is this supposed to work in practice? Does Biden's talk of increased military spending live up to the reality of the threats the U.S. is facing? And has he given up on Build Back Better? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The President concluded a speech in Poland saying the Russian president "cannot remain in power," but his advisers quickly said regime change in Moscow is not U.S. policy. Was it a gaffe, or did Biden mean it? Plus, the text messages of Ginni Thomas, wife of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, are leaked to the Washington Post.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While in Europe for an emergency meeting of NATO and a trip to Poland, Joe Biden announces that the U.S. will accept 100,000 Ukrainian refugees. He also promises more U.S. natural gas for our European allies, but will his policies match his rhetoric? Plus, the panel answers a listener's question about whether the United Nations has a role to play in ending Russia's invasion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Supreme Court nominee says she'll recuse herself from a case on racial preferences in Harvard admissions, but can we believe her claims to be a constitutional originalist? Plus, Joe Biden and NATO pledge to do more to help Ukraine at their emergency meeting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jillian Melchior joins the podcast from Lviv, Ukraine, to share what she is seeing on the ground and some of the stories of refugees fleeing the crossfire. Plus, the Securities and Exchange Commission proposes to make companies disclose climate risks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Biden is heading to Europe to attend a NATO summit, as Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine continues to stall. What should Biden ask of America's allies, as the free world tries to deter further aggression and see Ukraine through the conflict? Plus, what does it mean that U.S. officials are now accusing Russia of war crimes? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Republicans are ready to explore her judicial philosophy, but charges that she's weak on crime aren't likely to succeed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

During a nearly two-hour videoconference call, Joe Biden told Xi Jinping there would be consequences if China lent its support to Russia as its invasion of Ukraine continues. But was the President able to convey a strong enough message to the Chinese leader? Plus, the panel debates the pros and cons of Sen. Marco Rubio's "Sunshine Protection Act," which calls for an end to changing the clock twice a year, making daylight-saving time permanent.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rising gasoline prices and Russia's invasion mean that energy security and costs matter more than climate policies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In an address to Congress, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a direct plea to Joe Biden for him to take the lead in helping Ukraine defend against Russia and Vladimir Putin. But will his words and striking visuals push President Biden to give Zelensky the defenses he needs? Plus, Georgia plans to adopt a flat income tax, vying with other states to attract new businesses and residents.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky prepares to address Congress to ask for assistance to fight Russia, refugees from Ukraine have been flowing into other parts of Europe. So what can the U.S. and other countries do to help? Plus, the panel discusses how the Federal Reserve has found itself in a no-win situation on various fronts.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Despite calls for stronger actions to help Ukraine fight the forces of Vladimir Putin, Joe Biden has followed Congress and Europe more often than not. Is this a strategy, or is this part of who the President is? And how is the GOP handling the duty of being the loyal opposition in a war? Plus, the Biden administration pushes another nuclear deal with Iran despite a weekend missile attack.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In another move to crush Vladimir Putin's economy, Joe Biden announces a plan to sever permanent normal trade relations with Russia, as well as to block imports of seafood and vodka. Is this another step away from globalization? Plus, Covid-19 funding goes missing from Congress's spending bill, as a new Wall Street Journal poll spells bad news for the White House and Democrats.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As Russia stepped up its attacks on Ukraine, including a strike on a maternity hospital in the city of Mariupol, the consumer-price index reached 7.9%, a high not seen since January 1982. So how is Joe Biden handling the difficulties he's facing both home and abroad? Plus, the panel answers a listener email about the nature of deterrence vs. escalation during the Russia/Ukraine conflict.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With another funding deadline looming in Washington, Congress takes up an omnibus spending package that runs 2,741 pages. It includes more money for defense and aid for Ukraine, but congressional earmarks also make an inglorious return. Plus, the Supreme Court refuses to block a redistricting map in North Carolina, while opening the door for a similar case later. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After much debate, President Biden announces a formal ban on Russian oil imports to the U.S. But did Congress force him to make that move, and are Americans ready for even higher prices at the gas pump? Plus, the EPA's power to regulate carbon emissions goes before the Supreme Court.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oil prices hit $123 a barrel as momentum builds to block Russia's energy exports. Plus, the rush to get weapons to Ukraine, including fixed-wing aircraft. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

To punish Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine, a bipartisan group of lawmakers in Washington has proposed a bill to block imports of Russian oil. Sen. Joe Manchin says it would be worth the extra price at the gas pump, but would voters punish Democrats in November? Plus, a strong jobs report signals good news for Joe Biden, but inflation still looms over the American economy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Biden administration is celebrating the effect economic sanctions have put on Russia and Vladimir Putin. But does Joe Biden deserve the credit, or did European leaders really make the push for the move? Plus, the panel discusses the need to send more weapons to Ukraine and what China's role is in the conflict.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe Biden began his address to Congress with a message for Vladimir Putin about Ukraine, but then he pivoted to issues like inflation, where many of his proposals were reminiscent of his failed Build Back Better plan. So what was the takeaway for the American people? And what about the Republican response by Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While Joe Biden prepares to deliver his State of the Union address, Russia's attacks in Ukraine begin targeting civilian areas. What can the U.S. and NATO do to help, and what about establishing a no-fly zone? Plus, will the President declare victory over Covid-19 during his speech, and will he reframe Build Back Better as a way to tackle inflation?   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Vladimir Putin stirred outrage around the world when he ordered Russia's nuclear forces into “special combat readiness.” How serious should this threat be taken? Plus, the panel discusses the impact of economic sanctions on Russia and answers a listener email about NATO troop deployments.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Russian troops trying to conquer the capital city of Kyiv have met stiff resistance, as Western nations tighten sanctions on Vladimir Putin. Meantime, President Biden nominates D.C. Circuit Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to replace retiring Justice Stephen Breyer. How might her confirmation change the ideological makeup of the Supreme Court? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Putin returns the world to its pre-World War II disorder when the strong prey on the weak. The U.S. and Europe failed to deter him, but can they make him pay enough a price to stop him now? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Biden has put sanctions on Russian elites, financial institutions and sovereign debt, but will that be enough to deter Vladimir Putin from invading the rest of Ukraine? Plus, Florida Senator Rick Scott releases his vision for a Republican governing agenda, but his argument that "all Americans should pay some income tax" is already being attacked in a Democratic radio ad. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Validimir Putin sends his military forces over the border into Eastern Ukraine, after delivering a bellicose speech denying Ukraine's legitimacy and claiming that NATO might use it as a springboard to attack Russia. Can the U.S. and its allies hang together on a sanctions regime strong enough to deter further invasion? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Governor Gavin Newsom announces a new "endemic" Covid-19 policy for California, which is also lifting its indoor mask mandate. If blue states are removing even the strictest of rules, why aren't President Biden and the CDC making similar moves nationally? Plus, Texas sues over mask rules in airports and on planes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Governor Gavin Newsom announces a new "endemic" Covid-19 policy for California, which is also lifting its indoor mask mandate. If blue states are removing even the strictest of rules, why aren't President Biden and the CDC making similar moves nationally? Plus, Texas sues over mask rules in airports and on planes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In an attempt to bring Canada's trucker protests to an end, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau invokes the Emergencies Act. But is such a dramatic move necessary, or do police already have the power to clear blockaded streets? Plus, donors to the protests have found their names leaked to the public, leaving them open to harassment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The jury ruled against Sarah Palin in her libel lawsuit against The New York Times.  Will she appeal, and how does the verdict reflect the current state of journalism? Plus, why Republicans are rallying to stop the nomination of Sarah Bloom Raskin to a top post at the Federal Reserve.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

San Francisco overwhelmingly votes to recall three members of the city school board, which had pushed to rename schools while classrooms were still closed for Covid-19. Meantime, Virginia Democrats break ranks to ratify Governor Glenn Youngkin's mask-optional policy for their state's schools. Plus, Republicans and Democrats try to figure out how to avoid a government shutdown on Friday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Special Counsel John Durham says that a tech executive, trying to find Trump-Russia links in 2016, mined nonpublic DNS data for Trump Tower and the Executive Office of the President. Was there coordination with Hillary Clinton's campaign, and is this "worse than Watergate," as the former president claims? Plus, Joe Biden shows no signs of changing his mind on the withdrawal from Afghanistan or inflation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How an invasion would remake the strategic map of Europe and alter politics in the U.S. and around the world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Canadian truckers protesting vaccine rules have blocked the Ambassador Bridge, a major trade route to the U.S., disrupting supply chains in the automotive industry. Is the chaos hurting their message, and are similar demonstrations coming to the United States? Plus, two Democratic senators want to suspend the federal gas tax for the rest of 2022, and a listener raises concerns about biometric data already shared with the IRS. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Prices last month were up 7.5% compared with a year ago, the highest figure since 1982, and voters are pointing the finger at Joe Biden and Democrats in Congress. Could America be heading back to the days of gas lines and "Whip Inflation Now?" Plus, Democratic governors have started to ease mask mandates on schools and businesses in their states, while the CDC is still recommending mask wearing in some public settings. Who's following the science? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Pentagon is drawing up plans to help Americans evacuate if Russia decides to invade its neighbor, and Ukranians are busy preparing to resist an occupation. But could sanctions, including President Biden's pledge to kill the Nord Stream 2 pipeline, deter Vladimir Putin from military action? Plus, Jillian Melchior discusses what she saw during her recent trip to Kyiv. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After criticism from both Democrats and Republicans, the IRS plans to stop using facial recognition to authenticate taxpayers online. Didn't the IRS already have its hands full, with millions of tax returns backlogged and struggles to implement last year's advance payments for the child tax credit? Plus, California lets single-payer healthcare legislation expire again, as the state's wealthy rise up to defend solar-panel subsidies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Former Vice President Mike Pence says Donald Trump is wrong to argue that his VP could have overturned the 2020 election. Who's right, and what does this debate say about the messy Electoral Count Act of 1887? Also, the RNC votes to censure Rep. Liz Cheney and Rep. Adam Kinzinger for participating in the House's Jan. 6 committee. But shouldn't the GOP be more focused on winning the November midterms? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nancy Pelosi says this $350 billion bill will help the U.S. beat China in the 21st-century economy. Republicans say the legislation includes typical Democratic priorities, under the guise of maintaining an advantage over Chinese leader Xi Jinping. So what's really in the bill? Plus, Joe Biden celebrates the recent job numbers as free Covid-19 tests begin to arrive at homes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As U.S. troops are being deployed to Eastern Europe to respond to Russia's military moves near Ukraine, Islamic State leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi was killed during a nighttime raid in Syria by U.S special forces. So will ISIS continue to be a threat to the region? Plus, the world turns its attention to China as the Olympics get underway, and Joe Biden visits New York City to meet with Mayor Eric Adams to discuss measures to fight crime. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The state Legislature's redistricting proposal could help Democrats pick up four House seats, while contorting the 10th District held by Rep. Jerry Nadler. But doesn't this partisan map go against the "fair" districts that Democrats have been calling for? Plus, the panel discusses how Sen. Ben Ray Luján's absence will affect Biden's agenda and responds to a listener email about banning lawmakers from trading stocks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Both Democrats and Republicans on Capitol Hill have proposed bills to restrict stock trading by lawmakers. Nancy Pelosi says members of Congress should be able to participate in the "free market economy," which has drawn pushback from Sen. Josh Hawley. But does his plan, along with Sen. Mark Kelly's idea to require blind trusts, make sense? And what about the insider trading laws that already exist? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At a recent rally, Donald Trump said he would consider pardons for January 6th protestors he feels have been treated unfairly by the justice system. But with Lindsey Graham calling such an action "inappropriate," is the former President playing into Nancy Pelosi's hands for the midterms? Plus, Democrats look to turn their fortunes around in Congress by possibly passing a budget and securing another liberal seat on the Supreme Court. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Newly elected New York Mayor Eric Adams says the nation's largest city is dealing with "a sea of violence." What can he do to turn things around, especially given the lenient approach being pursued by Manhattan's progressive prosecutor, District Attorney Alvin Bragg? Plus, scrutinizing Adams's stances on noncitizen voting and charter schools. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With Joe Biden reaffirming his campaign pledge to nominate a black woman to the Supreme Court, the panel takes a look at who could be up for the nomination, and what the confirmation process might look like. Plus, a scandal involving "lockdown parties" has put Boris Johnson's job as Prime Minister in jeopardy, but that's not the only reason he's in trouble. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Supreme Court's senior liberal justice, Stephen Breyer, intends to step aside later this year, according to news reports Wednesday. Who is Joe Biden likely to nominate to replace him, and how might this change affect the dynamic on the nation's highest court? Plus, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin tells parents to "trust the legal process" as the judiciary considers his ban on mask mandates in schools. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Justices have agreed to hear two cases on racial preferences by Harvard and the University of North Carolina. Current precedent says that schools may use race as a "plus" factor when evaluating students, but how far does that go? Also, is Sen. Kyrsten Sinema's political future in danger after her censure by Arizona's Democratic Party? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As world leaders try to devise a strategy to counter a possible invasion of Ukraine by Russia, Secretary of State Antony Blinken promises "massive consequences" for any acts of aggression by Vladimir Putin. But will strong sanctions be enough, or will they just provoke the Russian president even more? Plus, how much is the military buildup on the Ukraine border contributing to falling stock prices? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week the Biden administration launched a new website for Americans to sign up and receive free Covid tests sent to their homes. But with the Omicron variant peaking, is this too late to be truly effective? Plus the panel addresses new CDC numbers regarding booster shots, possible tension between Donald Trump and Ron DeSantis, and a listener email about the Senate filibuster. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

During Joe Biden's surprisingly long press conference to mark his first year in office, the President stunned many with his comments about a potential Russian invasion of Ukraine and whether the legitimacy of the 2022 midterm elections will come into question. But did he signal a change in course for an administration with such low approval numbers? Plus, what is Chuck Schumer's next move after his plan to change the filibuster rule failed as expected? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Democrats are charging ahead with a plan to alter the Senate's rules to pass a federal election code, but would a talking filibuster give Schumer what he wants? And is Mitch McConnell right that this won't be "a harmless action," even if it fails? Plus, the Republican National Committee wants to change the way presidential debates are organized. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Federal prosecutors have charged 11 people, including a leader of the Oath Keepers militia group, with seditious conspiracy for their actions leading up to the Capitol riot last year. What does the indictment say, and is Attorney General Merrick Garland bending to political pressure to deliver stronger charges? Plus, the House's committee on Jan. 6 weighs its options after Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy refuses to cooperate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe Biden has announced a plan to start sending face masks and Covid-19 tests to hundreds of millions of Americans to reduce the virus's spread. But if the Omicron variant peaks soon, is it too late for these policies? Plus, Kamala Harris lacks a clear answer on whether it's time for a different approach, as Biden's poll numbers hit new lows. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Justices blocked a vaccine-or-testing rule by OSHA, aimed at businesses with over 100 workers, while keeping a mandate on healthcare staff. What do these rulings mean, as the Biden administration wrestles with the Omicron variant? Plus, Senator Kyrsten Sinema's defense of the filibuster seemingly sinks the Democratic election bill. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Biden's speech Tuesday in Georgia called for nuking the Senate filibuster to pass H.R.1, which he said was a response to "Jim Crow 2.0," "voter suppression" and "election subversion." But who is the President trying to convince when he says you're either on his side or Jefferson Davis's side? Plus, inflation hits 7% and the panel responds to a listener email about teachers in Chicago returning to school. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As Americans see prices rise at the meat counter and gas pump, Democrats are trying to pin the problem on big business. Is there anything to this, or is inflation being caused by economic factors like shortages of supplies and labor? Plus, Chicago public school teachers will return to work this week, as Mayor Lori Lightfoot takes a tough line on their "illegal walkout." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Does the Biden administration have the authority to impose a Covid-19 vaccine-or-testing mandate? On Friday the Supreme Court's liberal justices seemed to think so, as the Omicron variant spreads far and wide. The conservative Justices, though, aired concerns about government overreach. Plus, the panelists react to President Biden's speech addressing the Capitol riot last Jan. 6. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lawmakers are planning to mark the anniversary of the Capitol riot, and former President Donald Trump canceled his own press conference. But Democrats want to use Jan. 6 as an excuse to overrule the Senate's filibuster to pass H.R.1, a federal takeover of elections. Why not instead focus on the riot's real causes, including the poorly designed Electoral Count Act? Meantime, what are Rep. Liz Cheney and the rest of the House Jan. 6 committee hoping to find? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Politicians and scientists are adjusting Covid-19 strategies and guidelines as the Omicron variant sweeps the nation. President Joe Biden recently said there are "no federal solutions," but does he really mean that? Eric Adams, the new Mayor of New York City, says he will keep the schools open, but how will the teachers unions respond? And will Omicron affect the Supreme Court's view of the White House's vaccine mandates? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Will America finally defeat the Covid-19 pandemic, aided by new antiviral pills? Are Republicans favored to retake the House and Senate in the November midterms, perhaps aided by redistricting and Democratic retirements? And will the Supreme Court roil the political scene with a ruling on abortion or even a Justice's retirement? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As Joe Biden's inaugural year comes to a close, the country is wrestling with the Omicron variant of Covid-19, inflation numbers not seen in decades, and the fallout from his Afghanistan withdrawal. Plus, what did 2021 do for Donald Trump's standing in the GOP, and what other news stories from the past year are worth remembering? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe Biden's plan for taking on the Omicron variant of Covid-19 involves 500 million free test kits, but why are they in such short supply in the first place? Meantime, President Trump says he got the booster shot and that his fans should "take credit" for Operation Warp Speed's role in developing the vaccines. Plus, Biden's vaccine mandate for employers reaches the Supreme Court. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sen. Joe Manchin caught some Democrats by surprise on Sunday when he said he couldn't vote for Joe Biden's Build Back Better plan, but amid 6.8% inflation, is his stance all that shocking? Will Democrats call a vote on the bill anyway, and has the White House's blistering statement about Manchin done more harm than good? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Democrats are now casting Sen. Joe Manchin as a villain for killing hopes that the president's Build Back Better would be passed by Christmas. But the real reason for this failure is President Biden's overreach. Plus, San Francisco Mayor London Breed channels her inner Dirty Harry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The CEO of Pfizer announced that the new antiviral pill they have developed would be a "gamechanger" in the fight against Covid-19 by reducing the need for hospitalizations. What effect will this have on mask mandates and lockdowns. Plus, Joe Biden says Russia will suffer economically if it invades Ukraine, but Putin seems to be winning on that issue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chuck Schumer says the Senate will approve Build Back Better by Christmas. But between Joe Manchin's objections, concerns about inflation and a new CBO score, it's not looking good for Mr. Biden's signature piece of legislation. Plus, in the case of students suing Harvard alleging its admissions discriminates against Asian-Americans, the Biden Administration has come down firmly on Harvard's side. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Despite the alarms, the Justices' ruling on Friday was a technical one on the issue of legal standing, and the real action is still in the Mississippi case. Plus, the New York City Council moves to let 800,000 noncitizens vote in local elections, as long as they've been residents for 30 days. But what does the state constitution say? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A deal on raising the debt ceiling has Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell declaring victory, but will Democrats truly "own it" like McConnell says? Meanwhile, Republicans in Congress plan a vote to overrule President Biden's vaccine mandate. Plus, former Senator David Perdue will challenge Governor Brian Kemp in Georgia's GOP primary, but will a Republican split help Democratic candidate Stacey Abrams? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The White House announces a diplomatic boycott of the 2022 winter games in China as a response to the country's record on human rights. What about the idea of refusing to send American athletes at all, as Jimmy Carter did in 1980? And if China retaliates in the future, could the Olympics' place on the world stage change forever? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Congress averts a government shutdown, but the debt ceiling, a defense bill, and President Biden's "Build Back Better" plan are still unfinished. So what will get passed and what will not before 2021 ends? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Justices hear oral arguments on a Mississippi abortion law that could lead to the overturning or solidifying of the landmark ruling reached in Roe v. Wade. Will the Court rely on the doctrine of "stare decisis" and stand by its previous decisions? And how much will politics play into the eventual ruling? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The latest Covid-19 variant was detected last week in South Africa, and scientists say it's more transmissible and better able to evade current vaccines. President Joe Biden calls it "a cause for concern, not a cause for panic," but he rules out new "shutdowns or lockdowns." So what do people need to know about this new variant, and what is President Biden's plan to take it on? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As President Biden turns 79 years old this week, the President has told allies he is planning to run for re-electon in 2024. But voters are expressing concerns about Biden's mental and physical fitness to perform the duties of his office. So should Americans be concerned about his abilities, and what faith do Democrats have in Vice President Harris to be the nominee if Biden decides not to run? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Redrawing district lines for the House of Representatives and statehouses is an ongoing political battle which rears its head after the U.S. Census is taken, and especially one completed close to a midterm election. One of the biggest critiques of the process is gerrymandering, in which Republicans or Democrats draw lines to give themselves maximum partisan advantage. But is redistricting what ails American politics, and do the proposed reforms really work? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The man who drove into a Christmas parade in Wisconsin was out of jail on a low bail. Meantime, San Francisco shoplifting goes viral again. Is the debate over criminal justice in the U.S. starting to shift? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As a Kenosha jury finds Kyle Rittenhouse not guilty, is this a lesson in not jumping to conclusions? Plus, the Build Back Better bill passes the House after an 8-hour blockade by Kevin McCarthy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

He's charged with homicide for two killings amid the 2020 riots in Kenosha, Wis., but he says it was self-defense. As the jury nears a verdict, 500 troops are readied for more potential unrest. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

OSHA's Covid-19 rule is illegal and possibly even unconstitutional, says a Fifth Circuit panel, but where does the case go from here? Plus, Steve Bannon is indicted for contempt of Congress. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Consumer prices are up 6.2% from a year ago, the Labor Department says, touching food, fuel and more. Will that make Senator Joe Manchin press pause on the $1.75 trillion reconciliation bill? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New York restricts who can concealed carry for self-defense, but its laws are hard to square with the Second Amendment. Meanwhile, the Justices search for a way to block Texas's new abortion law. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the $1 trillion deal passes Congress, where is all that money going? Will it really help America's roads and bridges, in a way the 2009 stimulus didn't? And how about the rest of Biden's agenda? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As Special Counsel John Durham unveils a case against Igor Danchenko, what have we learned in this latest twist? Plus, OSHA's rule on Covid-19 might have legal and political vulnerabilities. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

GOP gains in the suburbs propel Glenn Youngkin into the governor's office, while making blue New Jersey competitive. How will this affect Biden's agenda and the race for 2022? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The gubernatorial race between Democrat Terry McAuliffe and Republican Glenn Youngkin might be a preview of whether the GOP can compete in the suburbs again in the post-Trump era. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A new $1.75 trillion reconciliation framework has progressive support, but moderates still want action on the SALT deduction. Plus, Merrick Garland testifies about his memo on threats to school boards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Democrats are still divided over what to put in their $2 trillion reconciliation bill, not to mention how to pay for it. But an Oct. 31 funding deadline looms, as does Virginia's Nov. 2 election. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The details are still hazy, but the problems are enormous. Will the billionaires get a refund if the stock market tanks? How will assets like art collections be valued? And is this even constitutional? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The former Trump adviser defied a subpoena from the Jan. 6 committee, but will the Biden Administration prosecute? Plus, the Supreme Court will hear a fast appeal on Texas' abortion law. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As two prominent Democrats trade jabs, is Congress really making progress on President Biden's big spending bill? Plus, as negotiators try to get under $2 trillion, what's likely to be thrown out? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

His commission is leaning against court-packing, and it's in favor of term limits for Justices. But is this whole exercise corrosive to American norms? Plus, what to watch for in the court's new term. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The White House cuts a deal to keep the Port of Los Angeles running 24/7, but how much will that help the economy? Plus, Biden's political problem with high gasoline prices and rising heating bills. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The White House is now reviewing OSHA's proposed Covid-19 rule for 80 million workers. But is this legal, and how will it be enforced? Plus, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signs a counter-mandate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The government's borrowing authority is being extended to December, but Mitch McConnell says Democrats are on their own now. What happens next, and should the debt limit be axed altogether? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A new study says that Democratic plans to expand the child allowance could drive more than a million workers from the labor force. Plus, Terry McAuliffe ties his opponent to Trump in the Virginia governor's race. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Democrats claim they can't pass the debt ceiling themselves despite their majorities in the House and Senate. Plus, Facebook comes under fire on Capitol Hill after an ex-employee leaks internal documents saying the company profits from decisions that negatively impact teens. What options do parents have in this debate? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A Justice Department report calls out the FBI for its FISA procedures. Plus, Democratic Senators Kyrsten Sinema and Joe Manchin anger their progressive colleagues and the IRS wants a look at everyone's bank accounts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Speaker Nancy Pelosi pulls a vote on the $1 trillion infrastructure bill, as progressives threaten to defeat it. Meantime, Senator Joe Manchin says his bottom line on budget reconciliation is $1.5 trillion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Businesses say that most workers have been immunized for Covid-19, but some are being fired, and President Biden's mandate from OSHA still hasn't arrived. Plus, the battle over booster shots. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nancy Pelosi schedules a vote on the $1 trillion infrastructure plan, while saying the $3.5 trillion bill will be whittled down. Plus, the Arizona "audit" demanded by President Trump doesn't back up his fraud claims. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Democrats are divided, yet they're trying to pass a $1 trillion infrastructure plan, plus a $3.5 trillion reconciliation bill, while funding the government and also suspending the debt limit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Addressing the U.N. General Assembly, Biden pledges "relentless diplomacy" and support for human rights, but the Taliban aren't listening. Plus, a deal to build nuclear submarines for Australia upsets the French. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A lawyer billing the Clinton campaign in 2016 has been charged with lying to the FBI. What does the filing say about a Russian bank, and where is Special Counsel John Durham heading? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the $3.5 trillion plan winds through budget reconciliation, a handful of Democrats dissent on energy and health-care provisions. They're still spit on the SALT deduction and the price tag, too. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Higher tax rates, lower income thresholds, a bigger marriage penalty, and even $96 billion on nicotine products. Plus, will the Senate's parliamentarian uphold the rules of budget reconciliation? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Polls say Governor Newsom is unlikely to lose. But the recall has been too close for Democratic comfort, as President Biden joins the campaign and calls the GOP frontrunner "a Trump clone." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Biden says a new OSHA rule will require 80 million workers to get vaccinated or else be tested weekly for Covid-19. What law gives him that power, and could it create a backlash? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Employers had 10.9 million openings in July, new data say, yet the last employment report was a letdown. Is the Delta variant to blame? Will it help that the $300 federal unemployment boost is ending? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Also, Brett Kavanaugh offers a timely constitutional lesson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Justices decline to block a new abortion ban that delegates enforcement to citizens, but this is only the start of the legal battle. Plus, Joe Manchin says he won't spend another $3.5 trillion. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Texas rolls back its pandemic election procedures. Meantime, congressional Democrats advance H.R.4 (also known as the John Lewis bill) to revive federal "preclearance" of state voting laws. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Biden's withdrawal is over, but Americans are still trying to escape, as the Taliban claim there's "no proof" that Osama bin Laden planned 9/11. Plus, spy agencies report on the origins of Covid-19. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Terrorists kill 13 Americans and nearly 200 others, as the U.S. evacuation of Afghanistan nears its conclusion. Plus, the Supreme Court blocks the President's latest Covid-19 eviction moratorium. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If President Biden's deadline isn't met, the Taliban threaten consequences, but lawmakers from both parties urge him to reconsider. Plus, will FDA approval of Pfizer's Covid-19 vaccine reduce hesitancy? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The House can't decide which to pass first, Joe Biden's $1 trillion infrastructure plan or Bernie Sanders's $3.5 trillion budget. Plus, Andrew Cuomo exits, as Kathy Hochul becomes New York's new governor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Biden defended his military pullout of Afghanistan on Friday, but it's unclear how many Americans are still in the country⁠-or how they'll safely get to the Kabul airport for evacuation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The CDC says Americans will get Covid-19 booster shots soon, as some cities begin requiring restaurants to ask for proof of vaccination. Plus, the debate over masks in schools heats up. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Biden says he stands by his decision to pull out, but the Taliban takeover of Kabul has turned chaotic, and the U.S. Embassy has told frantic Americans and allies to "shelter in place." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Consumer prices are up 5.4% over the past 12 months, but is this trend "transitory" or here to stay? Plus, the White House asks overseas oil producers, including Russia, to keep pumping. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo denies he did anything wrong, why didn't he stay and defend himself against impeachment? Plus, 46 GOP Senators say they won't raise America's debt ceiling. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bernie Sanders unveils the Senate's budget framework, including universal pre-k, green cards for "qualified immigrants," and a lower Medicare age. But can it all pass muster under the Byrd rule? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Senators haggle over the 2,700-page legislation, but it isn't "paid for," the Congressional Budget Office says. Plus, how is the Justice Department defending President Biden's new eviction moratorium? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After insisting he lacked the power to extend the CDC's eviction ban, President Biden did it anyway. Plus, calls for New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo to resign after an inquiry finds sexual harassment. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the CDC changes its mask guidance, and as breakthrough cases hit the headlines, is the public getting mixed Covid messages? Plus, President Biden's national moratorium on evictions expires. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Senate cuts a deal to spend billions on roads, bridges, Amtrak and electric-vehicle chargers, but do the numbers add up? Plus, new GDP figures show the U.S. above its pre-pandemic peak. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices