The NPR Politics Podcast Congress And Trump Play Tug-Of-War Over The 'Power Of The Purse'
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Jul 25, 2025 Delve into the tug-of-war between Congress and the Trump administration over the 'power of the purse.' Discover how a $9 billion spending cuts package reveals tensions between executive authority and congressional control. Explore internal GOP divisions on budgetary issues and the perennial clash between federal funding and local needs. The discussion is spiced up with intriguing anecdotes and examines the evolving role of appropriations, making politics both relatable and entertaining.
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Trump Tests Limits of Spending Power
- The Trump administration challenges Congress's traditional power over spending by testing executive authority limits.
- They reject full spending on approved budgets, cutting funds independently, shifting power to the executive branch.
Congress's Power in Rescissions
- Congress traditionally passes detailed appropriations bills specifying government funding.
- In rare cases, rescission allows Congress to claw back previously approved funds, but this process is seldom used.
Congressional Pushback on Cuts
- Some Republicans resist White House-directed rescissions to reassert congressional control over spending.
- They want detailed oversight and negotiation power, reflecting the importance of earmarks and regional priorities.