The Briefing with Jen Psaki

Jen Psaki looks back at how Democrats made Republicans pay for their efforts to kill Obamacare by making that a central focus of House races that ultimately flipped the House to Democratic control. Donald Trump's budget bill is so wildly unpopular that Democratic candidates are already preparing to run against the bill and anyone who supported it. Republicans, in the meantime, are busy trying to distract Americans from what they're doing.

Rep. Maxwell Frost talks with Jen Psaki about the uphill battle Republicans face in the House to pass Donald Trump's budget bill because they're already well short of the votes they need. Democrats hope that by delaying the vote, enough people will learn about the bill to make it too unpopular to pass.

Jen Psaki reviews the terrible poll numbers of Donald Trump's budget bill, including among Donald Trump's core constituency, and runs through the diverse array of people and organizations, some of whom would otherwise be aligned with Trump, who utterly reject the bill's content as well as its intentions. 

Jamie Raskin, a Democratic Congressman from Maryland and constitutional scholar, dives into the implications of recent Supreme Court rulings on executive power. He discusses how grassroots organizing is critical in countering Trump's controversial policies. Raskin elaborates on the role of state attorneys general in defending rights and navigating the challenges posed by judicial limits. The conversation touches on the importance of public engagement in legal battles and the resilience necessary to uphold constitutional rights amid ongoing governmental overreach.

The podcast dives into the chaotic communication from the Pentagon following military actions in Iran, highlighting scrutiny over the effectiveness of U.S. airstrikes and leaking intelligence. It discusses a covert operation and a tone-deaf press conference, revealing public confusion. The complexities of Iran's nuclear ambitions are explored, emphasizing the need for international oversight. On a different note, the show also celebrates a landmark moment in LGBTQ+ rights, reflecting on the anniversary of same-sex marriage legalization.

Zohran Mamdani, a New York City mayoral candidate and self-described socialist, shares insights from his campaign in a recent primary. He emphasizes the importance of reaching out to former Trump supporters, showcasing innovative grassroots strategies over traditional tactics. Mamdani discusses the challenges of navigating NYC's diverse political landscape, highlighting the need for authenticity and representation amid rising concerns about hate crimes. His approach focuses on building coalitions and addressing community needs.

In this insightful discussion, Elizabeth Warren, a Senior U.S. Senator from Massachusetts, tackles the chaotic narratives surrounding Trump's military actions in Iran. They unravel the inconsistencies in the administration's statements about the bombing's effectiveness, confronting the stark disconnect with public opinion. Warren also critiques the implications of Trump’s proposed Medicaid cuts and highlights bipartisan resistance. The conversation weaves through geopolitical tensions and exposes the ongoing challenges within the Justice Department, emphasizing accountability in government.

Paola Ramos, MSNBC contributor and author of 'Defectors,' and Greg Kassar, Chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, delve into the misinterpretation of fear that justifies military presence in Los Angeles. They argue that the real fears stem from Trump's aggressive immigration policies, not local protests. Their discussion highlights the chilling effects of militarization on immigrant communities, critiques racially charged political rhetoric, and emphasizes the urgent need for community-focused narratives over divisive tactics.

Jimmy Gomez, a Democratic Congressman from downtown Los Angeles, joins the conversation to address crucial topics affecting his community. They dissect how media misinterpretations of Trump's two-week military promise can mislead public perception. The discussion shifts to rising tensions around aggressive immigration enforcement in LA, particularly incidents near Dodger Stadium. Gomez shares challenges in accessing detention centers, emphasizing the need for transparency. The dialogue highlights the broader implications of political actions on civil rights and community responses.

Join former CIA director John Brennan, foreign policy expert Matt Duss, and Keisha Lance Bottoms, former mayor of Atlanta, as they dissect the chaotic influence of Trump’s foreign policy on his supporters. They explore the internal GOP conflicts surrounding U.S. military strategies in Iran and how media narratives shape these decisions. The conversation delves into the risks of Trump's impulsive actions and the urgent need for diplomacy over military engagement, highlighting the broader implications for local communities and the nation.