The Daily Punch

Punchbowl News Technology Reporter Ben Brody joins Max Cohen to discuss the impact content creators have on the U.S. economy and the policy conversation in Washington. Plus, details from his conversation with Kent Rollins, an Oklahoma-based chef known on YouTube as Cowboy Kent. Check out The Creator Economy. Want more in-depth daily coverage from Congress? Subscribe to our free Punchbowl News AM newsletter at punchbowl.news. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anna and Jake discuss FY2026 funding as the House is set to vote today on a $9 billion-plus rescissions package. Plus, the Senate makes moves to change the "Big, Beautiful Bill." Want more in-depth daily coverage from Congress? Subscribe to our free Punchbowl News AM newsletter at punchbowl.news. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Delve into the White House's strategic efforts to win Senate Republican support for President Trump's agenda. Discover the complexities of tax proposals and Medicaid controversies, alongside the race against time to finalize legislation. Explore speaker Mike Johnson's diplomatic visit to Israel, examining U.S. relations amid regional tensions. The discussion also tackles the contentious redistricting efforts in Texas and the potential risks they pose for upcoming elections, revealing the intricate dynamics within the Republican Party.

The reconciliation battle is heating up, complicating the already fierce partisan clash over government spending for FY2026. House conservatives are increasingly influencing Senate Republicans, pushing for substantial reforms. Additionally, John Thune is making strides on stablecoin reform amidst the chaos. Internal conflicts among House Republicans add pressure to their decision-making, while key legislative developments in cryptocurrency are reshaping financial policies, making for a riveting and urgent discussion.

The Senate is racing against a July 4 reconciliation deadline, with tax policies and Medicaid taking center stage amid fierce partisan disputes. Meanwhile, President Trump's deployment of National Guard troops ignites a significant political brawl. The episode also dives into Elon Musk's controversial role at Doge and the skepticism from K Street leaders regarding his influence in Washington.

Congressional reporter Mica Soellner breaks down the falling out between Donald Trump and Elon Musk over the reconciliation bill earlier this week. This story was featured in The Readback, our weekend digest featuring the best of Punchbowl News this week. Want more in-depth daily coverage from Congress? Subscribe to our free Punchbowl News AM newsletter at punchbowl.news. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Elon Musk's rising influence poses a unique challenge to Donald Trump and the GOP, revealing a power struggle fueled by Musk's wealth and media presence. Meanwhile, the Congressional Black Caucus grapples with leadership dilemmas as generational shifts collide with identity politics. Tensions rise as a high-profile figure emerges to oppose Trump, while social media reshapes public perception and legislative choices. The Democrats face their own hurdles, balancing messaging to engage working-class voters amidst the push for new leadership.

Tensions rise as Senate Republicans clash with the White House over tax reform in a critical reconciliation package. The complexities of balancing competing interests become increasingly apparent as deadlines loom. Meanwhile, the Michigan Senate race heats up, with crypto money backing Mike Rogers significantly. Additionally, innovation initiatives spark new collaborations between tech giants and the military, illustrating how political dynamics shift within the GOP.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune is leveraging his relationship with Donald Trump to advance a GOP reconciliation package. The show delves into the complexities of navigating Senate alliances and the urgency lawmakers face ahead of a pivotal deadline. There's also a deep dive into the special election for the late Rep. Gerry Connolly's seat, highlighting generational shifts and the evolving political dynamics in Virginia. Finally, the podcast discusses contentious budget battles within the Appropriations Committee, showcasing the tug-of-war over federal spending.

Brendan Pedersen, a Financial Services Reporter for Punchbowl News, analyzes the complex players influencing healthcare policy in Washington. He discusses the links between lawmakers, regulatory agencies, and the impact of pharmaceutical lobbying. Joining him, John Stanford, founder of Incubate, shares insights on the early-stage ecosystem in drug development and the essential role of venture capital in medical innovation. They explore the future collaboration between government, industry, and finance, emphasizing the dynamic landscape of biotech advancements.