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The NPR Politics Podcast

Roundup: Congress Works On Budget; Cabinet Meets; Good TV

Feb 28, 2025
Congress is locked in a tense budget battle as Republicans navigate internal conflicts over tax cuts and spending. The pressure is on, with deadlines looming and little margin for error. Meanwhile, a cabinet meeting stirs conversation about political communication and the evolving landscape of the White House press pool. The hosts also dive into pop culture, discussing the political themes in Netflix's 'Zero Day' and redefining figures like Monica Lewinsky as feminist icons. Plus, a nostalgic look back at women's roles and Gene Hackman's enduring legacy completes the mix.
21:00

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • House Republicans face significant challenges in passing a budget resolution that balances Trump's tax cuts with internal party divisions.
  • The White House's increased control over the press pool raises concerns about potential politicization and impacts on journalistic independence.

Deep dives

Republican Budget Challenges

House Republicans face significant hurdles in their attempts to pass a budget resolution that extends President Trump's 2017 tax cuts. Speaker Mike Johnson, while experiencing some unity within his party, has struggled with numerous defections from members who are hesitant about increased spending. During a crucial vote, the dynamics shifted dramatically as some Republicans changed their stance to support the resolution, highlighting the influence Trump now exerts in the legislative process. This situation reflects a tighter political landscape compared to 2017, with Johnson's slim majority leaving little room for error.

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