2WAY Tonight with Mark Halperin "He Has the Authority": Trump Aides Say Trump Can Invoke Insurrection Act As Protesters, ICE Clash
Jan 16, 2026
Jessica Anderson, a conservative political operative and former OMB associate director, teams up with Doug Friednash, a Democratic strategist and ex-chief of staff to Colorado's governor. They dive into the controversy surrounding the Insurrection Act, sparked by protests in Minnesota and clashes with ICE. The duo discusses media biases, the narrative around law enforcement tactics, and the implications for public trust. They also touch on U.S. military strategy regarding Iran and Venezuela, providing insights into today's political landscape.
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Administration Fatigue Could Affect Governance
- Mark reports senior White House officials and many staff are exhausted mid-second term, risking performance.
- He suggests this fatigue may affect governance and turnover decisions.
Recruit A Ready Successor Before Leaving
- If you plan to leave a senior role, recruit and recommend a strong successor before you announce your departure.
- That approach increases the chance your boss will accept your resignation gracefully.
From Hill Staffer To OMB Associate
- Jessica Anderson described her path from Capitol Hill to OMB in the first Trump administration.
- She credits experience at OMB preparing budget and regulatory work late into nights.