The NPR Politics Podcast Happy Holidays From A Fairly Unproductive Congress
Dec 15, 2023
This discussion dives into Congress's unproductive year, reflecting on unmet goals and the looming challenges ahead. It highlights intense bipartisan negotiations over national security and the urgent need for collaboration. Voter sentiments show discontent toward both major parties, particularly about immigration and abortion. Plus, a hilarious story about longhorn cattle causing transit chaos adds some levity. Finally, the conversation touches on iconic characters entering the public domain and the potential for sports team rebranding, sparking intriguing debates.
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National Security Funding Stalled
- Congress struggles to pass national security funding due to linking it with immigration reform.
- This combination stalls aid for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, despite Zelensky's plea.
Biden's Funding Request Precarious
- President Biden's funding request is precarious due to differing coalitions supporting its components.
- Republicans largely favor border security, while they are divided on Ukraine aid, and some Democrats oppose Israel aid.
Republican Motivation on Border Deal
- Republicans might not genuinely want a border deal, viewing it as a strong attack line against Biden.
- A bipartisan deal would mitigate this advantage going into the election year.