Punchbowl News founder Jake Sherman joins congressional reporter Max Cohen to chat about Speaker Mike Johnson on the campaign trail and Rep. Jim Jordan's ambitions for the next Congress.This episode is part of 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

Michigan is buzzing as the Senate race heats up, with over $90 million in campaign spending. Personal narratives clash with ideological shifts among candidates, driven by super PAC influence. Freshmen politicians are shaking up the scene with strategic political donations to their committees. Keep an eye on the competitive landscape in Maryland's 6th District, where external funding is reshaping emerging races and shifting political power.

Rep. Jim Jordan is on the rise, sparking intrigue about his aspirations for House Minority Leader. His strategy, shaped by Trump’s backing, poses questions for GOP leadership. Meanwhile, the FTC grapples with industry pressures, as support for Lina Khan faces challenges, while Commissioner Rebecca Kelly Slaughter emerges as a preferred choice. Additionally, Congress debates enhancing consumer protections for online subscriptions, showcasing the intricate dance of policy-making and electoral strategy.

As Election Day approaches, the podcast dives into the tangled web of congressional leadership dynamics. It sheds light on how Donald Trump's influence shapes Rust Belt Republican candidates and examines the contrasting stability among Democratic leaders versus chaos surrounding Republicans. The discussion expands to the internal struggles within the GOP as they gear up for leadership elections. Plus, it highlights the challenges Texas Democrats face in pushing back against Republican dominance, all while exploring the shifting political tides.

Senate leadership is heating up as John Thune campaigns hard in Indiana. The race to replace Mitch McConnell is not just about popularity, but also grassroots engagement. Attention shifts to the House Financial Services Committee as fundraising efforts become critical for aspiring Republican leaders. Meanwhile, a prominent Democrat intensifies his campaign efforts in key battleground states, notably Arizona, as the election draws near. It's a thrilling chess match of strategies and ambitions unfolding in American politics.

Sen. Sherrod Brown navigates a challenging reelection in Ohio, focusing on appealing to disenchanted voters amid a tough political climate. The conversation highlights local issues like trade and the fentanyl crisis. Meanwhile, Speaker Mike Johnson sets fundraising records with $27 million in Q3, indicating shifting dynamics in the political landscape. Additionally, the debate over the Kids Online Safety Act raises concerns about censorship and impacts on social media platforms. This lively discussion invites listeners to weigh in on critical topics.

Mica Soellner, a Punchbowl News reporter focused on Pennsylvania's congressional races, provides an inside look at the fierce competition between Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick and Scott Perry. She shares captivating anecdotes from the campaign trail, like a memorable diner visit that blends local charm and political strategy. The discussion dives into the dynamics of swing districts, highlighting how local issues, including healthcare and the economy, echo national sentiments and shape voter opinions as the 2024 elections approach.

After almost a year of holding the speaker's gavel, we check in with Mike Johnson on the road in Lancaster, Pa. Plus: Sen. Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) faces a tougher-than-expected race this November.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

The race to represent Pennsylvania's 10th District is much closer than anyone anticipated with Janelle Stelson climbing in the polls against Rep. Scott Perry. Plus: A record number of LGBTQ candidates are running for Congress this cycle. And several of them are poised to make history.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

When Congress returns later this fall, they'll have to contend with the fallout from Hurricane Milton and an ongoing crisis in the Middle East. Plus: House GOP Conference Chair Elise Stefanik is trying to boost early voting among GOP voters in New York despite former President Donald Trump's mixed messages on the issue.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