The Daily Punch Readback: Congress’ Copenhagen course-correction
Jan 24, 2026
Andrew Desiderio, a congressional reporter who rode with a bipartisan CODEL to Copenhagen, recounts a surreal reassurance mission to Danes worried about U.S. interest in Greenland. He highlights lawmakers’ realization about ceded congressional powers, Danish public reactions and protests, and the emotional moments linking U.S. lawmakers and Danish sacrifices.
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Bipartisan Presence Brought Relief, Not Guarantees
- Even veteran lawmakers found the Copenhagen trip surreal given usual warm receptions in NATO capitals.
- Their presence offered relief to Danes but not the same certainty as binding promises from Washington.
Congress Created Its Own Credibility Problem
- Congress has gradually ceded power to the executive on tariffs, trade, war, and appropriations.
- That erosion undermines foreign reassurance missions and reduces credibility with allies, Andrew Desiderio observed.
Senator Recognized For A Floor Speech On The Street
- A Danish woman recognized Senator Tom Tillis and praised his Senate-floor speech on Greenland in the street.
- Tillis found it jarring because North Carolinians rarely reference Senate speeches in person.