The NPR Politics Podcast House Advances Major Budget Deal As Trump Bemoans Impeachment
Dec 17, 2019
President Trump's fiery six-page letter to Speaker Pelosi criticizes the impeachment process as unprecedented and unconstitutional. Meanwhile, the House successfully passes a massive $1.3 trillion bipartisan spending bill to prevent a government shutdown. This bill includes funding for crucial initiatives like election security and military pay raises. The discussions highlight the delicate political landscape, where bipartisan cooperation emerges even amidst impeachment turbulence, showcasing the challenges and stakes involved in the legislative process.
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Trump's Impeachment Letter
- President Trump sent a six-page letter to Nancy Pelosi criticizing the impeachment process.
- He calls impeachment an "unprecedented and unconstitutional abuse of power."
Bipartisan Spending Bill Highlights
- A bipartisan spending agreement includes raising the tobacco buying age to 21 and funding gun violence research.
- It also maintains level funding for border security, addresses Obamacare taxes, and supports VA health benefits.
Will Trump Sign?
- While the White House is pleased with aspects of the spending bill, President Trump's past actions create uncertainty about his willingness to sign it.
- The looming election and impeachment proceedings add further complexity to the situation.