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On this episode, The Washington Post's Libby Casey, Rhonda Colvin and James Hohmann break down some of the most controversial provisions in Republicans' giant spending and immigration bill: Provisions that would affect Medicare and the Affordable Care Act.While the bill has already passed the GOP-controlled House, it might have a tougher time getting through the Senate, where some Republican senators have already expressed doubts – like Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Ark.), who has said it is “wrong to cut Medicaid for the working poor.”Plus, Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) told a town hall last week that "we all are going to die," then doubled down in an Instagram video on Saturday. Is that a politically risky move – or just what Trump would do?

On this episode, The Washington Post's Libby Casey, Rhonda Colvin and James Hohmann are joined by Pentagon reporter Dan Lamothe to delve inside the ongoing drama in Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's inner circle: Who is at odds with whom, and what does it mean for Hegseth's job security.Then, President Trump has been on a spree of issuing pardons and commutations for convicted felons – many of whom are his supporters. The crew breaks down who got pardons, and why.Finally, Elon Musk is out of government; did he accomplish what he set out to do, and was it a success?

On this episode, The Washington Post's Libby Casey, Rhonda Colvin and James Hohmann dive into the ways institutions are fighting back against President Trump – both culturally and legally – starting with Harvard University and NPR, which are both embroiled in lawsuits with the administration.Plus, how are those two institutions bellweathers for the rest of America, from other universities to media outlets and free speech?

A busy week in Washington takes a sharp turn with the shocking shooting of Israeli embassy employees. The hosts dig into the GOP's budget bill, revealing contentious cuts to SNAP and Medicaid that could impact millions. Tensions rise as they discuss Trump's chaotic diplomatic meeting with South Africa's president, illustrating the complexities of international relations. Ethical dilemmas surface over Trump's crypto dinner, highlighting conflict of interest concerns. The discussion rounds off with the escalating debate on crypto regulations and the division among lawmakers.

The discussion centers around Trump's massive budget bill, a 1,100-page proposal packed with GOP priorities. Tensions arise as the team analyzes whether Trump can rally support from his own party to pass it. Key issues include tax cuts, Medicaid changes, and the political strategy to sidestep Democrats. They also explore the urgent implications of Biden's recent cancer diagnosis, raising questions about political transparency and the health disclosures of leaders. The complexities of party factions and their negotiations add an intriguing layer to the legislative landscape.

A lively discussion unpacks how Trump reshaped Washington, with his oversized portraits and efforts to elevate his image. The panel dives into his controversial financial dealings, including dismissals tied to DEI initiatives, and the preference for loyalty over qualifications in appointments. They also explore the quirkiest presidential gifts—like faux furs from Saudi Arabia—adding a humorous touch. Amid serious topics, the crew reflects on the enduring significance of these cultural shifts and ethical dilemmas.

Abigail Hauslohner, a national security reporter for The Washington Post with extensive experience in the Middle East, dives into President Trump's Middle Eastern trip. She discusses his controversial meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and the implications of his skipped meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. The legalities of accepting a 747 jet from Qatar come into play, raising questions about foreign gifts to a former president. Hauslohner also touches on the complexities of U.S.-Saudi relations and ongoing humanitarian concerns.

On this episode, The Washington Post's Libby Casey, Rhonda Colvin and James Hohmann are joined by religion reporter Michelle Boorstein and Rome bureau chief Anthony Faiola to discuss the papal conclave and the election of the first American pope, Leo XIV.The crew breaks down the process the cardinals followed, then dives into the politics of the conclave: How cardinals make themselves candidates, and how they try to elevate their positions behind the scenes while adhering to the strict traditions surrounding the process.And finally, the crew breaks down whether the cardinals take American politics, or world politics, into account at all when choosing a new leader for the Catholic Church.

Naftali Bendavid, a senior national political correspondent for The Washington Post, joins the conversation to dissect Trump's evolving economic rhetoric as he gears up for 2024 elections. They explore how Trump’s pivot from populism to an acknowledgment of necessary sacrifices might resonate with voters. The discussion also highlights the strains on American institutions under Trump’s influence and the controversial reception of his AI-generated image in papal attire, raising questions about satire versus serious political messaging.

Maeve Reston, a national political reporter for The Washington Post, joins the discussion to explore the shifting dynamics within the Democratic Party as they prepare for the 2028 primary. She delves into Kamala Harris's recent empowerment initiatives for female candidates and the party's strategies to counter the Trump administration's policies. The conversation also highlights the rise of progressive figures like Sanders and AOC, emphasizing the importance of unity and innovative campaign tactics as the political landscape evolves.