

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

Jul 22, 2025 • 14min
Congress is behind on spending
Anna and Jake dive into the critical issues surrounding government funding and the delays in the appropriations process. They discuss the tension between conservatives and Democrats as the August recess approaches. The podcast also highlights the intriguing political maneuvering within the House Rules Committee related to Epstein documents, revealing rifts among Republicans. Finally, they explore redistricting strategies for the 2026 elections and how these could shape the future for the Republican majority.

Jul 21, 2025 • 11min
Congress crawls toward August
Congress is limping toward August recess, with eyes on Trump's push to keep the Senate busy confirming nominees. Meanwhile, the race heats up to replace Rep. Mark Green as Homeland Security Committee chair, revealing intense competition among candidates. The show also dives into Texas redistricting, discussing how these changes could impact political power ahead of the 2026 elections. Tune in for the latest twists and turns in the Capitol's bustling political landscape!

Jul 19, 2025 • 9min
The Readback: Crypto craziness
Dive into the chaotic world of crypto as the House GOP faces major challenges during a tumultuous Crypto Week. Discover the legislative battles brewing around stablecoins and Central Bank Digital Currency, with conservative lawmakers pushing back. Tension rises between the Federal Reserve and the White House over costs related to renovations, adding to the drama. The hosts lighten the mood by discussing tennis court reservations and recommending political literature, inviting listeners to share their favorites.

Jul 18, 2025 • 14min
Leader Look: Jeffries and Johnson
Speaker Mike Johnson and Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries navigate a divided Congress, facing significant legislative challenges. Tension rises as a potential government shutdown looms, with Senate Majority Leader John Thune gearing up for a crucial vote. Meanwhile, Jeffries showcases his leadership style amid Democratic shifts in strategy. The podcast also explores House Republicans' attempts to reassess strict immigration policies, revealing inner party rifts and community responses to their approach. It's a whirlwind of political maneuvering and strategic planning!

Jul 17, 2025 • 13min
The Creator Economy: Entertainment's New Era
Content creators are revolutionizing media consumption, reshaping Hollywood along the way. The rise of figures like Dude Perfect showcases how they’re transforming into substantial businesses. There's a growing need for tailored legislation as lawmakers engage with this new economy. Traditional media struggles to keep up with changing viewing habits driven by creators. Discussion also highlights the innovative business models behind popular brands, including new gaming channels and extensive live tours.

Jul 17, 2025 • 15min
House Dems are California dreamin’
California Democrats are plotting a bold redistricting plan aiming for up to seven new congressional seats to counter Republican gains. They face political tensions as Senate Republicans approve a significant rescissions package, raising questions about the Democrats' next moves. The show also highlights the camaraderie among lawmakers during a Congressional Women's Softball game, juxtaposed with serious discussions about appropriations. Additionally, a looming voting impasse on crypto policy showcases the ongoing dysfunction in Congress.

Jul 16, 2025 • 15min
The Three Amigos vote no — again
The Senate's recent vote revealed a trio of GOP senators breaking party ranks, igniting discussions on political norms and leadership in the current landscape. A looming expiration of enhanced ACA premium tax credits threatens healthcare for 4.2 million Americans, showcasing internal Republican tensions. The influence of the Freedom Caucus and Donald Trump looms over legislative strategies, particularly around spending cuts and healthcare. Meanwhile, fundraising dynamics and redistricting in Texas add another layer to the evolving political scene.

Jul 15, 2025 • 14min
The Future of Energy: The Players
Diego Munhoz, a Technology Reporter at Punchbowl News, discusses the evolving landscape of the energy sector and its key players. He highlights the contrasting policies between Democrats and Republicans, focusing on clean energy versus fossil fuels. Influential congressional figures, like Senators Mike Lee and Shelley Moore Capito, come under the spotlight for their diverse approaches to energy reform. Munhoz also touches on the intersection of energy policy and artificial intelligence, revealing the complexities of balancing industry interests with environmental protections.

Jul 15, 2025 • 12min
Rescissions stalls
Focus is on the hotly debated rescissions package, with OMB Chief Russell Vought meeting Senate Republicans to secure votes. Former National Security Advisor Mike Waltz faces tough questioning in his confirmation hearing, particularly regarding his controversial decisions. The implications of these political maneuvers suggest deepening divisions among Senate Republicans. Additionally, the podcast touches on urgent crypto legislation amidst shifting political landscapes and the Trump family's connections to the crypto market.

5 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 14min
What Hakeem Jeffries is thinking
The discussion dives into President Trump's aggressive rescissions package, proposing significant cuts and testing Senate unity. Hakeem Jeffries and the Democrats' strategic messaging challenges are spotlighted, revealing the complexities of government funding negotiations. Tensions rise between the House Republicans and Senate Democrats, highlighting the fragile political balance. Additionally, the podcast explores the impressive fundraising success of Speaker Mike Johnson's affiliates, showcasing the ever-evolving landscape of campaign strategies.