The NPR Politics Podcast Why Aren’t More Young Republicans Running For Congress?
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Sep 2, 2025 Congress is buzzing as members return to tackle partisan battles, including the fallout from the Jeffrey Epstein scandal. A curious trend emerges: while young Democrats are stepping up to run, young Republicans seem hesitant to join the fray. The podcast delves into the generational divide in political ambition, exploring why young Republicans feel satisfied with their current leadership despite calls for new voices. Additionally, funding negotiations could lead to a government shutdown, further intensifying the stakes on Capitol Hill.
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Epstein Files Remain A Flashpoint
- The Epstein files controversy didn't fade over recess and returned as a heated oversight battle in the House.
- Republicans face internal divisions on transparency while Oversight ramps subpoenas and survivor interviews.
Shutdown Risk Looms In September
- Congress must confront a potential government shutdown as funding runs out at the end of September.
- Republicans passed stopgap measures earlier, forcing Democrats into a politically risky negotiation over funding levels.
Young Democrats Outnumber Young Republicans
- More Democrats in their 20s and 30s are running for Congress compared with very few young Republicans so far.
- Young Republican organizers say they feel less urgency because their party controls most levers of power now.