

The Daily Punch
Punchbowl News
Weekday mornings, The Daily Punch brings you inside Capitol Hill, the White House and Washington for an unfiltered look at the key players and stakes of all major issues of the day. Power. People. Politics. Hosted by Punchbowl News founders, journalists and best-selling authors Anna Palmer and Jake Sherman.
Episodes
Mentioned books

8 snips
Apr 7, 2025 • 9min
The sound of chaos
Jake dives into the chaotic aftermath of President Trump's tariffs and how they're setting up a clash with Congress. He dissects the tumult in financial markets and the federal budget, revealing the tricky landscape of trade policies and political negotiations. The episode also sheds light on the struggles Republican lawmakers face with tariff reforms, including local political pressures that influence election advertising in places like Shreveport, Louisiana.

Apr 5, 2025 • 12min
The Readback: D.C. budget brouhaha
Samantha Handler, author of The Portal newsletter, discusses House Republicans' struggle to pass a measure that would give the D.C. government flexibility to spend its budget. 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

8 snips
Apr 4, 2025 • 17min
Can Republicans pass tax cuts in Trump's unpredictable world?
Exploring the chaotic political landscape, the discussion delves into the hurdles Republicans face in pushing through tax cuts amidst various crises. The impact of tariffs on legislative efforts takes center stage, highlighting the complexities of Trump's agenda. Tension arises as Senate Republicans struggle against opposition for budget resolutions, while the contentious proxy-vote debate reflects internal divisions. Additionally, the conversation touches on evolving child care support measures and the implications for new parents in Congress.

Apr 3, 2025 • 12min
Tariffs, taxes and Trump
Anna and Jake reveal how Trump's tariffs threaten consumer prices and challenge Republican strategies. They dissect the intricate political games as Trump seeks Senate GOP backing for a budget resolution. The discussion also highlights the brewing tensions within Congress, particularly between House and Senate spending goals. Additionally, Texas Democrats are contemplating legal actions over delays in special elections, urging listeners to stay engaged with these pressing political developments.

Apr 2, 2025 • 20min
Thune's survive-and-advance strategy
Anna and Jake dive into Speaker Johnson's setback over proxy voting for new parents, stirring debate on representation in Congress. They discuss the crucial meeting between Senate Republicans and President Trump regarding a compromise budget resolution, tackling contentious tax policies. The podcast highlights political dynamics emerging from recent special elections in Florida and Wisconsin, exploring how these results might shape future Republican strategies and voter sentiments.

Apr 1, 2025 • 17min
Republicans begin to openly fret about Trump's tariffs
Tensions are rising within the Republican Party as concerns mount over Trump's potential tariff impositions. Lawmakers worry about the economic fallout impacting elections, with anxieties swirling around stock market stability and voter reactions. There's a visible rift as members clash over budget resolutions, signaling a need for Trump’s leadership to foster unity. Additionally, strategic moves concerning federal judiciary oversight hint at broader political conflicts shaping the party's future. The atmosphere is charged as old strategies face new challenges.

8 snips
Mar 31, 2025 • 15min
A week that will tell us a lot about the Trump presidency
This week is pivotal for the Trump presidency, with vital moves on tariffs and elections shaping the political landscape. The tension in House GOP leadership over proxy voting highlights inclusivity challenges. Unexpected voter shifts in Florida pose new hurdles for Republicans, while a key Wisconsin Supreme Court race draws significant attention. Meanwhile, Congress rushes to finalize the budget resolution crucial for Trump's agenda, and Democrats, led by Chris Murphy, strategize for the upcoming midterms, focusing on critical polling insights.

Mar 29, 2025 • 14min
The Readback: Carr makes news
Diego Munhoz, a tech reporter for Punchbowl News, shares insights from his compelling interview with FCC Chair Brendan Carr. They dive into Carr's controversial initiatives, including a probe into Disney's diversity policies and the impact of Elon Musk on the space economy. Munhoz discusses how Carr navigates politics while striving for tech safety and examines varied reactions to his leadership changes at the SEC. The conversation also touches on Carr's proposed shifts to Section 230 and concludes with a nod to actor Gene Hackman's legendary career.

4 snips
Mar 28, 2025 • 9min
We got the Republicans’ budget plans
Delve into the Republican strategies for their budget resolution, sprinkled with humorous takes on college basketball. Discover the contrasting budget proposals from Senate and House Republicans, revealing party unity challenges. Engage with the heated debates on military actions, especially J.D. Vance's push against airstrikes in Yemen, and the calls for investigations into financial ties of prominent figures. It's a lively discussion on the intricacies of party politics and budgetary battles!

Mar 27, 2025 • 10min
The Ones to Watch: Advancing with AI - Workforce
Dive into the intriguing world of artificial intelligence and its impact on the workforce. Discover how automation could enhance productivity and GDP while also raising concerns about job displacement. The conversation addresses the balance between innovation and regulation, highlighting the need for lawmakers to create supportive frameworks. With insights into recent legislation in states like Florida and Colorado, this discussion sheds light on the ethical use of AI in employment and prepares us for a future where technology and work converge.


