KQED's Forum
How MAGA Took Over Congress with NYT’s Annie Karni and Luke Broadwater
Mar 26, 2025
In this discussion, Annie Karni and Luke Broadwater, New York Times reporters and co-authors of "Mad House," delve into the chaos of the 118th Congress. They reveal how MAGA extremism has reshaped the political landscape, pushing moderators aside and leading to unprecedented dysfunction. Key highlights include the controversies surrounding the Speaker's ousting and the internal turmoil among Republicans. The guests also touch on the implications of these shifts for democracy and the challenges faced by the Democratic Party in this tumultuous climate.
57:47
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Quick takeaways
- The dysfunction in the 118th Congress, marked by internal Republican conflict and MAGA extremism, has disrupted traditional legislative processes.
- The rise of figures like Marjorie Taylor Greene illustrates how the MAGA movement has reshaped party dynamics and influences Congress's direction.
Deep dives
Accidental Disclosure of Military Plans
A journalist inadvertently received military strike plans through a group text involving top officials from the Trump administration, raising significant concerns regarding protocol and security. The journalist opted to withhold details from the public but later shared information to clarify the situation after officials claimed no classified information had been shared. This incident highlights the chaotic communication practices within the administration and raises questions about accountability and the handling of sensitive information. The administration's response included accusations against the journalist rather than addressing the breach itself.
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