

The Readback: Outrage in the Senate over Padilla chaos
Jun 14, 2025
Andrew Desiderio, a senior congressional reporter, delves into the chaos caused by the shoving of California Senator Alex Padilla by federal agents at a press conference. He discusses the intense reactions from the Senate, highlighting divisions within the Republican Party over border security funding and the pressure of upcoming reconciliation efforts. The conversation explores the political ramifications of these events and even veers into the intriguing use of taxpayer funds for advertising, ending on a lighter note with Netflix show recommendations.
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Padilla's Forced Removal Incident
- Senator Alex Padilla was forcibly removed by federal agents during a DHS press conference in Los Angeles.
- This rare incident sparked strong reactions from Democratic senators calling it unconstitutional silencing.
GOP Divisions on Border Security
- Internal Republican disagreements emerged over border security funding within the reconciliation bill.
- Stephen Miller clashed with Senators Ron Johnson and Roger Marshall over the administration’s border security numbers.
Senate Nominee Confirmations Slowed
- Senate confirmations face unprecedented delays with Democrats blocking nominees via procedural roadblocks.
- This increasingly hostile environment reflects broader polarization and challenges Trump's administration faces in Congress.