The Daily 'The Interview': 3 Senators Who Quit on Why Congress Won’t Stand Up to Trump
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Dec 13, 2025 
Former Senators Jeff Flake and Joe Manchin join current Senator Tina Smith for a candid discussion on the broken state of the Senate. Flake warns about the dangers of growing presidential power, while Manchin highlights the disconnect with working-class voters. Smith candidly reveals her reasons for stepping down, citing safety concerns amid political violence. They debate the increasing partisanship and the role of the filibuster. The trio also explores potential reforms like term limits and the need for a return to bipartisan cooperation.
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Senate Has Abdicated Its Constitutional Role
- The three senators describe the Senate as broken, retreating, and abdicating core responsibilities.
- They argue the body has stopped functioning as the framers intended and failed to check presidential power.
Warning About Executive Overreach
- Jeff Flake warned about authoritarian tendencies and urged Congress to reclaim powers like war and tariffs.
- He says the current president is pushing executive limits and the Senate must be willing to stand up.
Why West Virginia Left The Democrats
- Joe Manchin recounts West Virginia voters feeling abandoned by national Democrats who focus on nonworking able-bodied people.
- He says that perception cost Democrats working rural areas and drove voters away.