Senator Jacky Rosen, a Democratic force from Nevada known for her bipartisan efforts, joins the discussion on urgent legislative tasks facing Congress. With just two weeks left, she highlights the critical need for a federal spending package and a defense budget. The conversation also dives into strategies for navigating a potential Trump return, focusing on bipartisan governance and voter priorities. Rosen sheds light on the challenges ahead as Republicans maneuver towards the 2026 midterms and the implications of recent budget cuts on future legislation.
In the final weeks of the 118th Congress, lawmakers must rapidly pass essential measures, including spending packages and defense budgets, to prevent a government shutdown.
Senator Jacky Rosen highlights the significance of bipartisan collaboration and addressing constituents' needs to protect progressive initiatives amid a potential Republican majority.
Deep dives
Lame Duck Session and Legislative Priorities
The remaining weeks of the 118th Congress are critical as lawmakers focus on passing a federal spending package to prevent a government shutdown, along with approving the defense budget and allocating funds for disaster relief. During this lame duck session, Democratic senators are eyeing the confirmation of numerous judicial nominees to fill federal judgeships before the party loses its slim majority. Additionally, Democrats are considering proactive measures, such as executive orders aimed at mitigating the impact of anticipated Republican policies under a potential Trump administration. This window of opportunity allows for a concentrated effort to secure progressive achievements, particularly concerning immigration and health care.
Senator Jackie Rosen's Re-election Insights
Senator Jackie Rosen emphasized the importance of genuinely listening to constituents and responding to their needs during her re-election campaign. Despite the challenges of winning in a state where Trump had strong support, she was able to outperform Vice President Harris, indicating a clear voter priority for effective representation and bipartisan collaboration. Rosen reflects on past experiences and prepares for a Republican trifecta in Congress, emphasizing the need to protect progressive initiatives like the Affordable Care Act and citizenship for undocumented individuals. Her focus is not only on blocking legislative rollbacks but also on maintaining productive relationships across party lines to achieve tangible results.
Georgian Protests and Political Climate
Protests have erupted in Tbilisi, Georgia, following the ruling party's decision to cease efforts for European Union membership, which has raised tensions among the populace, with over 300 arrests reported. The public's frustration stems from the government's increasing authoritarian behavior, exemplified by violent crackdowns on opposition members and the implementation of regressive laws. This unrest is compounded by Georgia's complicated relationship with Russia, as the ruling party appears to adopt rhetoric and policies that align more closely with the Kremlin, leading to widespread concerns among citizens. Despite the government's attempts to suppress dissent, the opposition remains resilient and committed to advocating for European integration and democratic principles.
There are only two weeks left for the 118th Congress to legislate. And there’s a lot to do. Lawmakers must pass a federal spending package to prevent a government shutdown, approve a defense budget, and decide how much money to set aside for relief after a rough year of natural disasters—no big deal. In the Senate, Democrats also need to confirm as many as President Joe Biden’s remaining judicial nominations before they lose power. Nevada Senator Jacky Rosen joins us to discuss what’s on the Senate Democrats’ agenda for the remainder of the year.
And in headlines: Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy paraded around Capitol Hill to push their vision for DOGE, the Justice Department says the Memphis Police Department violates residents' constitutional rights, and Republicans face a historically small House majority in the next Congress.