The Chuck ToddCast

On episode 2 of the brand-new Chuck Toddcast, Chuck is joined by Jake Sherman, founder of Punchbowl News and one of the most well-connected reporters on Capitol Hill.But first, Chuck reflects on the results of the special elections in Florida and the Wisconsin Supreme Court race, which showed that the base of the out-of-power party is fired up. He explains why this suggests voters are more inclined to vote against a party rather than for one. He also discusses why the party in question is in desperate need of soul-searching and possible realignment to build a winning coalition.Then, Jake Sherman joins the conversation to discuss the latest from D.C. They begin by examining Speaker Mike Johnson’s decision to send the House home for the week after a dispute over proxy voting for members of Congress—and why Johnson’s power is tied directly to President Donald Trump. They also explore the revenge-driven mindset that has shaped decision-making on Capitol Hill and the lack of Republican pushback against Trump’s sweeping tariffs.They dive into how the dynamics of the current Congress differ from those of years past and why some Republicans might view their loss in the Wisconsin Supreme Court race through rose-colored glasses—thanks in part to Elon Musk.They wrap up by discussing whether Democrats could see a shake-up in leadership and the timeline for passing a tax cut and a debt ceiling extension.Finally, Chuck wraps up with a listener question in the “Ask Chuck” segment by giving his take on whether the debate around a Trump third term was a smokescreen to knock “Signalgate” out of the news cycle.Timeline:0:00 Introduction2:00 Voters are telling us what they DON’T like5:00 Democrats need to do some soul searching9:45 Democrats can’t just be “anti-Trump”11:17 Jake Sherman joins the show15:50 Mike Johnson sends the house home20:30 Is Johnson powerless without Trump?23:10 Revenge is the mindset of Republicans25:50 Any appetite in Congress to take back authority from the executive branch?28:15 Will economic downturn/tariffs scare elected Republicans31:20 Lack of experience in Trump’s cabinet38:00 Could we see a deluge of Republican retirements from Congress41:25 Members of Congress are different now43:28 Republicans secretly happy they can blame Elon Musk for the Wisconsin loss?46:28 Would Chuck Schumer win a leadership vote in the Senate?49:05 Timeline for passing tax cuts/debt ceiling extension?56:05 Ask Chuck: Was the “Trump third term” debate a smokescreen to knock “Signalgate” out of the news”(Timestamps may vary based on advertisements)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this discussion, John Fetterman, the junior U.S. Senator from Pennsylvania, unpacks the recent special elections and their implications for the Democratic Party. He reflects on Trump’s influence on voter turnout and the challenges the party faces, including the ‘Signalgate’ scandal. The conversation shifts to questions of leadership within the party and the overwhelming role of billionaires in politics. Fetterman also teases his potential presidential aspirations for 2028, making it a thought-provoking dialogue on current and future political landscapes.

The Chuck Toddcast is back! If you’re looking for smart, no-nonsense political conversations, you’ve come to the right place. The Chuck Toddcast goes beyond the headlines—talking with top reporters, insiders, and newsmakers from D.C. to the heartland. No scripts, no spin—just real conversations about what’s shaping our politics and why it matters.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.