Bob King, Fmr. President of the UAW, and other guests discuss the ongoing political battle in the US causing a potential government shutdown, the impact of the UAW strike and the need for worker recouping, the danger of vaccine misinformation, implications of a gag order on the former president, congressional impasse and auto industry strikes, geopolitical dynamics and national security, and the history and influence of The Heritage Foundation's Mandate for Leadership.
House Republicans' internal discord puts the government at risk of a shutdown with severe consequences.
Former President Donald Trump's legal troubles don't hinder his position as the front-runner for the Republican presidential nomination.
The UAW strike raises fair wage concerns and potential implications for jobs and manufacturing competitiveness in the auto industry.
Deep dives
Capitol Hill Republicans at Impasse Over Funding Bill
House Republicans on Capitol Hill are at a standstill over a funding bill, with a group of Republican holdouts refusing to consider a short-term funding bill known as a continuing resolution. This impasse has set the government on a path towards a devastating shutdown in just six days. Speaker Kevin McCarthy has expressed hope that the holdouts will eventually relent, but progress has been slow. This latest discord is an example of the discontent among Republican ranks in the current session of Congress.
Trump's Legal Troubles and Potential Presidential Run
Former President Donald Trump faces various legal challenges, including a civil trial brought by the New York State Attorney General and 91 criminal counts. However, despite these legal issues, he remains the front-runner for the Republican presidential nomination. Trump's campaign for presidency triggers a constitutional crisis, as there are questions surrounding his eligibility to run. Meanwhile, he has already begun pivoting towards the general election and is skipping the next Republican primary debate. His campaign also emphasizes revenge and grievance against President Biden.
United Auto Workers Strike and Impact
The United Auto Workers (UAW) strike has expanded to 38 warehouses across 20 states, causing potential widespread disruption to the auto industry in North America. President Biden has expressed support for the UAW and plans to join the picket line. The strike raises issues of fair wages and seeks to recoup what workers have sacrificed in the past. The UAW is an important part of the American economy, and any resolution will likely have implications for jobs and manufacturing competitiveness.
Concerns over Potential Government Shutdown
House Republicans' internal discord and the potential for a government shutdown are causing concerns. Speaker Kevin McCarthy is facing difficulty in resolving the funding bill impasse, with a small group of Republican holdouts refusing to consider a short-term funding bill. The government shutdown could have severe consequences, impacting national security and various government services. While Democrats express a willingness to keep the government open, they are unwilling to accept proposed cuts that would adversely affect social programs.
Zelensky's Resilience and Strength
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has become a symbol of resilience and strength in the face of Russia's unprovoked war. Despite initial doubts about his leadership, Zelensky's small but mighty army has held its ground against a much larger opponent, making significant gains. Zelensky's recent visits to the UN, Washington, and Canada highlight the ongoing conflict and the need for continued international support. However, the long-term viability of that support remains uncertain, as it depends on the outcome of future US presidential elections.
The Conservative Agenda of Project 2025
The Heritage Foundation's Project 2025, also known as the Mandate for Leadership, presents an ambitious conservative agenda that seeks to overhaul the federal bureaucracy and dismantle what it calls the 'deep state.' The plan includes defunding and controlling agencies like the DOJ, FBI, and DHS. It also aims to eliminate departments such as Education, Commerce, and Health and Human Services. Project 2025 emphasizes Christian and biblically based ideologies, while targeting LGBTQ rights and reproductive rights. Its vision aligns with the Trumpist agenda and is intended for long-term implementation, potentially impacting multiple presidential elections.
Ali Velshi is joined by Bob King, Fmr. President of the UAW, Dr. Peter Hotez, Co-Director for Center for Vaccine Development at Texas Children’s Hospital, Lisa Rubin, MSNBC Legal Analyst, Melissa Redmon, Fmr. Fulton County Deputy District Attorney, Rep. Debbie Dingell, (D) Michigan, Adm. James Stavridis, Fmr. Supreme Allied Commander at NATO, Michael Hirsh, Senior Correspondent, Foreign Policy, and Steve Benen, Producer of The Rachel Maddow Show.
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