Fresh Air
Inside The 'Mad House' Of Congressional Disfunction
Mar 25, 2025
Annie Karni and Luke Broadwater, both veteran reporters for The New York Times and co-authors of "Mad House," delve into the chaos of the 118th Congress. They highlight the historically low legislative output dominated by MAGA influence and the breakdown of civility among lawmakers. The discussion reveals anxieties surrounding Medicaid cuts and the impact of wealthy figures like Elon Musk on politics. Listeners will gain insights into the shifting power dynamics and challenges faced by legislators, particularly younger women in a male-dominated environment.
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Quick takeaways
- The current MAGA-controlled Congress has exhibited unprecedented dysfunction, passing only 27 bills, the lowest since the Great Depression.
- Democrats have adapted to aggressive Republican tactics by engaging in confrontational strategies, raising concerns about traditional legislative decorum and effectiveness.
Deep dives
The Dynamics of a MAGA-Controlled Congress
The podcast highlights the turbulent nature of the 118th Congress, particularly under a MAGA-controlled framework. It underscores how extreme partisan divisions led to minimal legislative productivity, with only 27 bills passing into law during the two-year session, marking the lowest productivity since the Great Depression. The discussions reveal instances of intense conflict and threats among members, showcasing a climate where governing priorities often took a backseat to personal animosities. The chaotic environment is depicted through vivid accounts of confrontations, exemplifying a significant shift from traditional legislative decorum.
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