Rachael Bade, a Senior Washington correspondent at Politico, and Jeffrey Skelley, an expert in election analysis, delve into the current dynamics of Congress amid President Trump's second term. They discuss the shifting attitudes toward gender norms within the Republican Party, particularly among women, showcasing the tension between traditional and progressive values. The episode also addresses looming budget negotiations, the implications of U.S.-Ukraine relations, and the strategies Trump might use in his upcoming congressional address.
Congress faces significant challenges in bipartisan negotiations over budget cuts and funding, impacting Trump's legislative effectiveness amidst urgent political dynamics.
Recent polling indicates a rising support among Republicans for traditional gender roles, reflecting an ideological divide on social issues in American politics.
Deep dives
Congress Reenters the Spotlight
Congress is set to play a crucial role in upcoming political events as it shifts back into focus amidst significant executive actions and court rulings stemming from the White House. With a looming government shutdown and a critical address from Donald Trump to Congress, the urgency for bipartisan cooperation has never been greater. The challenges lie particularly in passing a budget that aligns with the desires of both conservative Republicans and moderates, especially with proposed tax and spending cuts that could affect vulnerable districts. Navigating this complex landscape of political expectations and responsibilities will be pivotal in determining the legislative agenda and the effectiveness of Trump's administration moving forward.
Shifts in Gender Role Perceptions
Recent polling indicates a notable change among Republican men and women regarding traditional gender roles, with a significant increase in support for women reverting to traditional societal roles. The percentage of Republican men advocating for this shift has risen dramatically from 28% in 2022 to 48% in 2023, while Republican women's support has also increased. This shift may not solely reflect a genuine change in belief, but rather could be influenced by current political discourse and the emphasis on family and social values in Republican circles. The contrasting views among Democrats, who maintain largely progressive stances on gender roles, highlight the growing ideological divide regarding social issues in American politics.
The Dynamics of Political Masculinity
There is a rising sentiment among Republican women and men that society has become too soft and feminine, with 67% of Republican women now expressing this belief, a stark increase over the past decade. This sentiment parallels a broader discussion about the appeal of strong masculine energy in politics, particularly regarding figures like Donald Trump, who is often seen as embodying a 'strongman' archetype that resonates with many voters. Voters are concerned with societal issues such as crime and immigration, leading to a preference for leaders who project strength and decisiveness. This evolving narrative surrounding masculinity in politics not only reflects current voter anxieties but also shapes the strategies employed by political candidates.
Budget Resolution and Healthcare Cuts
The recent passage of a budget resolution by the House details major spending and tax reductions while placing considerable strain on social programs, particularly Medicaid. The proposed plan entails $2 trillion in cuts, yet the specifics remain vague, casting doubt on the feasibility of such drastic reductions without addressing key areas of social support. Tensions between moderates and conservatives within the party highlight the difficulty of reaching consensus on budgetary measures, particularly when essential programs like Medicare are off the table for cuts. The expectation that increasing economic growth will offset tax cuts further complicates this complex fiscal landscape, raising concerns about potential implications for healthcare access and the political ramifications of these decisions.
Congress has kept relatively quiet during the first month of President Donald Trump's second term, but in the coming weeks it will be thrust into the spotlight. Amidst intraparty Republican debate over tax and spending cuts, Trump will deliver an address to Congress on Tuesday night. Legislators will also be tasked with funding the government by March 14 or face a shutdown.
In this installment of the 538 Politics podcast, Galen speaks with Rachael Bade and Geoffrey Skelley about what to expect from congressional negotiations. They also ask whether a new poll on attitudes around gender norms is a good or bad use of polling.