The NPR Politics Podcast

Has Congress Ceded Power To The White House — And Can It Get It Back?

34 snips
Oct 22, 2025
The discussion dives into the significant shift of power from Congress to the White House, exploring the limits of congressional authority. Insightful debates arise over military actions in the Caribbean and the lack of oversight from lawmakers. Several senators express growing concerns about the administration's decisions, particularly around executive power and the justification of strikes without evidence. The hosts ponder whether the current dynamics signal a breakdown of checks and balances, and if a future Congress could reclaim its authority.
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INSIGHT

Drug War Framing Expands Military Reach

  • The Trump administration equates drug traffickers with terrorists to justify military strikes abroad.
  • Congress has received little information or oversight about the secret target list or legal rationale.
ANECDOTE

Bipartisan But Failed Vote On Strikes

  • Senators Adam Schiff and Tim Kaine forced a vote over strikes that killed at least 27 people.
  • Rand Paul and Lisa Murkowski joined Democrats but the measure fell short of passage.
INSIGHT

Military Steps Into Coast Guard Role

  • The Coast Guard traditionally handles drug interdiction but the administration used military force instead.
  • Critics say the U.S. is 'shooting first and asking questions later' without detaining or interrogating suspects.
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