CONTROL: Recent Episodes
Seven Letter
CONTROL is a podcast hosted by Seven Letter’s Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller, two veterans of Capitol Hill who now serve as communications strategists to Fortune 500 companies, non-profits and advocacy coalitions. Drawing on their experience in GOP congressional politics, the podcast seeks to look around the corner at the policy priorities and political dynamics that will define Congress.
The podcast series talks to experts who know the institution and helps explain the challenges and opportunities facing a divided Congress. Guests include subject-matter experts, journalists, former lawmakers, and political operatives, all with a keen insight into what is next for Washington. With Season 2 of CONTROL, you can expect a new episode every Tuesday when Congress is in session.
On the second of a two-part series examining how the parties are approaching the upcoming midterm elections, Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci are joined by Mike Smith, president of House Majority PAC. They discuss the Democrats plan to take back the House, bellwether races to watch, and the impact of a surging left wing. Plus, Speaker Mike Johnson looks to advance key priorities: Reconciliation 3.0, a CR, the NDAA and a ban on stock trading.
Note: With the House headed into a long recess and Annalyse headed on maternity leave, this will be the last episode of CONTROL for several months.
Hosts: Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci
Guest: Mike Smith, House Majority PAC
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
Punchbowl: Four big GOP bills for the House’s last week
WaPo: Four competing priorities bog down Republicans ahead of midterms
POLITICO: Senate GOP isn’t sold on Mike Johnson’s budget blueprint
POLITICO: The Senate GOP’s squeaky wheel suddenly has a lot of power
WSJ: Democrats Go on Offense With $272 Million Ad Strategy
NYT: In Trump’s Second Midterm, Democrats Are Looking for Fighters
Roll Call: Democratic socialists’ primary wins give Trump new midterms attack lines
On the first of a two-part series examining how the parties are approaching the upcoming midterm elections, Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci are joined by Brendan Jaspers, political director for the National Republican Senatorial Committee. They cover the key battlegrounds as well as the impact of a recent SCOTUS ruling allowing political parties to spend unlimited funds in direct coordination with candidates. Plus, reactions to the sudden passing of Senator Lindsey Graham and continued gridlock in the House.
Hosts: Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci
Guest: Brendan Jaspers, NRSC
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
AP: Lindsey Graham’s journey from a pool hall to the heights of political power
AP: From staunch critic to fierce ally: Graham’s long, strange and consequential friendship with Trump
NOTUS: With Lindsey Graham Gone, Republicans Worry They Lost Their Trump Whisperer
Axios: Inside Mike Johnson's déjà vu cycle of failed rule votes
Washington Examiner: Johnson confronts GOP rebellion over SAVE America Act as House returns to Washington
WSJ: A Zombie Congress Is Threatening Trump’s Agenda
AP: Republicans see their grip on Senate tighten amid Democrats’ dysfunction in Maine
The Hill: Democrats fear chances of winning Senate may be slipping away
NBC News: Sen. Dan Sullivan accuses Democrats of recruiting Alaska Senate candidate with the same name
NYT: Supreme Court Lifts Spending Limits on Political Parties and Candidates
Ahead of a what is scheduled to be a busy week in the House of Representatives, Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci ask whether the SAVE America Act will continue to dominate the conversation. Can lawmakers strike deals on the NDAA and annual appropriations bills, or will Reconciliation 3.0 become the only path forward? Then, Ramsey Touchberry, congressional reporter for the Washington Examiner, joins the show to unpack the latest dynamics in the Senate. Plus, on this week's Campaign Corner: insurgent candidates gain ground in Colorado, and establishment Democrats search for a message as the party's left flank gains momentum.
Hosts: Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci
Guest: Ramsey Touchberry, Washington Examiner
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
POLITICO: Trump doubles down on SAVE America Act after Supreme Court loss on mail voting
The Hill: Trump calls housing bill ‘a yawn,’ concedes SAVE America Act unlikely to pass
The Hill: Johnson: Blocking House agenda over SAVE America Act is ‘self-defeating’
Fox Business: Trump, Mike Johnson eye SAVE America Act in reconciliation as House races toward recess
POLITICO: GOP infighting threatens critical defense bill
Washington Examiner: Inside Trump’s explosive meeting with Senate Republicans
Washington Examiner: New York socialist surge reveals warning signs for Schumer
As President Trump prepares to head up to Capitol Hill for the Republican Senate lunch, Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci discuss what kind of reaction he may receive and what items might be on the agenda from the Save America Act to the Iran deal to the incoming DNI. At the end, the United Kingdom will have a new Prime Minister and Zohran Mamdani looks to flex his political muscle in key New York House primaries.
Hosts: Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
Punchbowl News: Trump to meet with Senate GOP amid tension
NBC News: Senate Republicans grow increasingly frustrated with Trump blindsiding them
The Hill: Senate Republicans in somber, pessimistic mood over Trump deal with Iran
The Hill: Mike Lee: Senate GOP must do ‘hard work’ to pass SAVE America Act
POLITICO: House GOP races to make Recon 3.0 real
POLITICO: He Quit Parliament. Now He’s Set to Become Britain’s Prime Minister.
New York Times: Will New York Swing Further to the Left? Here’s a Preview of Tuesday’s Primaries.
Congress faces another looming deadline this week as FISA authorities are set to expire. Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci discuss if GOP leaders will be able to overcome objections from both sides of the aisle and pass an extension. Plus, Reconciliation 2.0 moves ahead as talk of a third bill heats up. Then, Leigh Ann Caldwell, Puck’s chief Washington correspondent, joins the show to talk about the scramble set off by the Bill Pulte DNI announcement and the latest with the Maine Senate race as Graham Platner faces another scandal.
Hosts: Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci
Guest: Leigh Ann Caldwell, Puck
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
Punchbowl: Can Congress pass a short-term FISA extension?
ABC News: Democratic revolt over Trump's DNI pick Pulte puts FISA re-authorization in jeopardy
Puck: The G.O.P.’s Pulte Problem
Puck: Hill Rebellion & The Platner Files
CNBC: Congress moves toward approving $70 billion for ICE and CBP through Trump’s presidency
The Hill: GOP plots third reconciliation bill as midterm clock ticks
The Guardian: Judgment day for under-fire Democrat Graham Platner in Maine primary
Congress is racing to finish some major items, but will any GOP priorities get bogged down amid party infighting? Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci discuss the path ahead for reconciliation, FISA and government funding. Then, Natalie Andrews, a White House correspondent for The Wall Street Journal, joins the show to discuss the Senate’s “Wounded Bear Caucus” and Vice President Vance’s relationship with President Trump.
Hosts: Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci
Guest: Natalie Andrews, Wall Street Journal
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
Fox News: Congress barrels toward deadline pile-up as GOP divisions threaten Trump agenda
POLITICO: Trump administration retreats on 'Anti-Weaponization Fund'
POLITICO: ‘Get a warrant’: FISA fights resurface
MSNOW: ‘We have the votes to win’: Khanna predicts Iran war powers vote win for Democrats Tuesday
CNN: Spencer Pratt brings Los Angeles’ economic anxieties into primetime
POLITICO: ‘Every week it seems like it’s something else’: Democrats worry about Platner revelations
POLITICO: Chuck Schumer’s Iowa problem
WSJ: A New ‘Wounded Bear Caucus’ in the Senate Means More Trouble for Trump
NYT: Is JD Vance the 2028 Front Runner? Trump Has Questions.
On a new episode of CONTROL, Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci are joined by Scott Wong, Senior Congressional Reporter for NBC News, to break down the latest drama unfolding on Capitol Hill and on the campaign trail. The trio dive into Reconciliation 2.0 and 3.0, President Trump’s influence in GOP primaries and the looming midterms, the continued fight over redistricting, the absence of Rep. Thomas Kean Jr., and much more.
Hosts: Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci
Guest: Scott Wong, NBC News
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
Punchbowl: Crunch time for GOP’s reconciliation bill
CNBC: Trump ballroom money in question after Senate parliamentarian rules. Thune says GOP will persist
POLITICO: Trump pushes to attach his SAVE act to must-pass bipartisan bills
The Hill: GOP lawmakers battle as conservatives press for third budget reconciliation bill
NBC News: Rep. Thomas Massie confronts the full force of Trump’s wrath in a Republican primary
NBC News: Democrats warn a third of the Congressional Black Caucus could be wiped out by redistricting wars
New York Times: The Mystery of a Congressman’s Absence Deepens
Speaker Johnson made it through Hell Week, but what does reconciliation have in store? Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci are joined by Matt Glassman, who spent 10 years at the Congressional Research Service and is now a Senior Fellow at the Government Affairs Institute at Georgetown, for a primer on Reconciliation 2.0 and a discussion of how the appropriations process has gone awry. Plus, after a setback in Virginia, how will Democrats move forward on redistricting?
Hosts: Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci
Guest: Matt Glassman
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
Punchbowl: Trump’s ballroom security money is in trouble
Axios: Johnson to address Senate Republicans amid escalating tensions
The Hill: GOP opposition grows to moving third reconciliation package on Trump agenda
Politico: Trump wants a gas tax holiday. Republicans will ‘hear him out,’ Thune says
Politico: Jeffries guarantees Democratic House win in midterms despite ‘undemocratic’ rulings
The Hill: GOP braces for high-stakes 2027 spending fight with midterms looming
Matt’s Five Points: The Dawn of Partisan Appropriations
It is “Hell Week” in the House of Representatives with several major votes on the schedule. Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci discuss the outlook for Reconciliation 2.0, FISA and the Farm Bill. Plus, Meredith Lee Hill, Senior Congress reporter for POLITICO, shares how the attack at the WHCD is shaking up the agenda and what to look for during a big week for Speaker Mike Johnson.
Hosts: Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci
Guest: Meredith Lee Hill, POLITICO
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
POLITICO: WHCD attack jolts Mike Johnson’s big week
POLITICO: ‘National emergency’: After assassination attempt, White House urges Congress to fund DHS
POLITICO: Johnson says Senate-passed DHS funding bill will have to change
POLITICO: It’s finally farm bill week
Punchbowl News: House GOP has an impossible week
TIME: King Charles Arrives in Trump's Washington, and a Congress Less Civil Than His Mother Faced
The Senate is moving ahead with reconciliation while things go off the rails in the House – all while a pivotal election takes place across the Potomac. On a new episode of CONTROL, Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci discuss Speaker Johnson’s FISA flop and next steps in the Senate for DHS funding and the Iran war. Then, Punchbowl News’ Senior Congressional Reporter Ally Mutnick joins the show to preview the redistricting ballot measure in Virginia and what it portends for both the 2026 midterms and future election cycles. Plus, the trio analyze the most competitive races across the Senate map.
Hosts: Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci
Guest: Ally Mutnick, Punchbowl News
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
POLITICO: Republicans stare down a growing, neverending FISA crisis
Punchbowl News: Thune: Full speed ahead on reconciliation
New York Times: House Thwarts Bid to Halt Iran War, but Some in G.O.P. See Support Fading
WaPo: Senate rejects resolution to block Trump from striking Iran
New York Times: White House Declines to Offer Congress an Estimate of Iran War Cost
Punchbowl News: House, Senate Dems post giant Q1 numbers
Punchbowl News: NRCC outraises DCCC in Q1
New York Times: Democrats Spend Big but Face Tough Fight in Virginia Gerrymandering Battle
CNN: Pinwheels and the ‘lobster district’: How Virginia Democrats drew up a US House map to all but lock out Republicans
CNN: How a must-win Michigan Senate race turned messy for Democrats
On a milestone episode of CONTROL, Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci cover the stack of items that have piled up on Congress’ to-do list over the spring recess – starting with a critical vote to extend FISA. Then, with peace talks to end the Iran War faltering, will more Republicans support a War Powers Resolution? And will DHS ever reopen? At the end, Reese Gorman, a political reporter at NOTUS, shares his insights into the resignations of Rep. Eric Swalwell and Rep. Tony Gonzales, House leadership maneuvering, and TMZ’s new focus on Capitol Hill.
Hosts: Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci
Guest: Reese Gorman, NOTUS
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
NBC News: Congress returns to battles over DHS, expelling lawmakers and the Iran war
WaPo: Powerful surveillance program faces obstacles as renewal deadline looms
Politico: GOP leaders prepare to steamroll opponents of DHS funding plan
NOTUS: Notice Anything Different About Jim Jordan? That’s Because He’s Probably Angling for Leadership
NOTUS: Tony Gonzales Announces He’s Leaving Congress, Avoiding Likely Expulsion Vote
NYT: TMZ Sics Its Tipsters on a New Breed of Celebrity Villain: Members of Congress
With the DHS shutdown dragging on and frustration mounting over TSA lines, Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci discuss if there is any hope for a deal. Plus, debate continues over the SAVE America Act and supplemental funding for the Iran war. Then, Semafor’s Congressional Bureau Chief Burgess Everett joins the show to share what he is hearing on DHS funding, a second reconciliation package, and Markwayne Mullin’s confirmation. And this week on campaign corner: the Maine Senate race.
Hosts: Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci
Guest: Burgess Everett, Semafor
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
Semafor: Senate tries frantically to reopen DHS
CBS News: DHS funding talks in limbo after Trump calls on GOP to link bill to SAVE America Act
Semafor: Collins wants bipartisan Iran spending bill
CNN: In Maine’s marquee Senate primary, Janet Mills reaches out to women by raising Graham Platner’s online past
Semafor: Senate Democrats square off with each other in ‘spicy primaries’
The Hill: Senate advances Mullin to head Department of Homeland Security
As the SAVE America Act heads to the Senate floor, hosts Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci consider the bill’s outlook and how Majority Leader Thune is balancing competing interests. Then, they discuss a potential supplemental funding bill for the Iran war, the ongoing DHS shutdown and fallout from the Texas primary. At the end, Sarah Ferris, a CNN reporter covering Capitol Hill, joins to talk about what life is like for House Republicans with such a slim majority and other rumblings from the halls of Congress.
Hosts: Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci
Guest: Sarah Ferris, CNN
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
The Hill: Trump allies plan Senate floor takeover to pass SAVE America Act
Semafor: Trump’s voting bill fixation strains Republicans to the breaking point
Punchbowl: Johnson vs. Jeffries on Iran funding
Politico: One month later, White House and Democrats no closer to ending the DHS shutdown
CBS News: SAVE America Act becomes key issue in Texas GOP Senate primary between John Cornyn and Ken Paxton
WBEZ: Five Illinois congressional seats, Senate seat open in historic election year
CNN: One vote to lose: Life inside a chaotic House GOP majority
In the wake of this weekend’s strikes against Iran and with the conflict continuing to spread, hosts Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci are joined by Seven Letter colleague Sabrina Singh, who served as Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary during the Biden administration. They discuss how the Trump administration has communicated about the war, the reaction from Capitol Hill, and what to watch for in the days ahead. Plus, will the conflict raise the pressure to pass DHS funding? And who has the edge in today’s Texas primary?
Hosts: Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci
Guest: Sabrina Singh
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
New York Times: How Trump Decided to Go to War
AP: Congress will debate an Iran conflict that is well underway
Punchbowl: Congress’ war over the war
CBS News: Iran strikes highlight fractures in GOP ahead of war powers votes in Congress
New York Times: Democrats Denounce Trump’s Iran Attack, but Subtle Divisions Emerge
Politico: Republicans use Iran strikes to pressure Dems in DHS funding fight
CNN: Despite Trump push for voter ID law, Senate Republicans say votes aren’t there to change filibuster rules
Semafor: Some Republicans back Trump on nationalization of voting
Axios: GOP insiders fretting over Texas Senate primary
It’s State of the Union day! Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci share what they’ll be looking for during tonight’s speech and how lawmakers from both parties are likely to react. Then, they discuss the latest maneuvering around DHS funding, tariffs, and the SAVE America Act before being joined by Sahil Kapur, Senior National Political Reporter for NBC News, to learn the latest from Capitol Hill and the White House. When will the government shutdown end? Is the talking filibuster a realistic possibility? Is President Trump losing his grip on the GOP? All that and more only on CONTROL.
Hosts: Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci
Guest: Sahil Kapur, NBC News
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
NYT: ‘It’s Going to Be a Long Speech’: Trump Prepares for State of the Union
POLITICO: A high-stakes State of the Union just got harder for Trump
Axios: Democratic response to Trump's SOTU becomes a crowded affair
NBC News: 'Everyone here is irate': White House scrambles after tariff loss as Trump unloads on Supreme Court
CNBC: Congress contemplates its role on tariffs after Supreme Court decision
The Hill: Republicans eye opening for DHS deal this week as Democrats double down
NBC News: Trump's election bill tops 50 Senate votes, but Democrats could still block it
All signs point to a stalemate on Homeland Security funding – where does Congress go from here? Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci discuss if a deal can be reached or if another shutdown is ahead. Then, Andrew Desiderio, senior congressional reporter for Punchbowl News, joins the show to share what he is hearing from the halls of the Senate. Plus, revelations in the Epstein files continue to roil Capitol Hill, pressure is rising to pass the SAVE America Act, and more Members head for the exits.
Hosts: Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci
Guest: Andrew Desiderio, Punchbowl News
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
Punchbowl News: The Big Four, Trump and DHS
Punchbowl News: WH responds to Democrats’ DHS overhaul
Punchbowl News: Clintons continue sparring with Comer
CNN: GOP lawmaker behind Congress’ Epstein push says Commerce Secretary Lutnick should resign over links
The Hill: House GOP digs in on push for voting bill in hopes of pressuring Senate
Matt’s Five Points: Talking Filibuster Explainer
The Hill: Rep. Mark Amodei is 30th House Republican to not seek reelection
NYT: The Troubled State of the Senate Has Members Eyeing Governorships
With the government shutdown again, it is starting to feel like Groundhog Day at CONTROL. Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci analyze the latest impasse from every angle and are joined by Semafor White House Correspondent Shelby Talcott to hear the administration’s perspective. They discuss the key players in the negotiations, the divide between House and Senate Democrats, and President Trump’s shifting focus. Plus, what does the surprising result in a Texas special election say about the midterms?
Hosts: Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci
Guest: Shelby Talcott, Semafor
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
Semafor: Democrats strike deal with White House on government funding
Politico: How Mike Johnson is scrambling to keep the shutdown short
CNN: Trump leans on Republicans to back his funding deal with Democrats — eager to end government shutdown
NBC News: Schumer and Jeffries take different tacks on government funding bill
NYT: Clintons Capitulate on House Epstein Inquiry, Agreeing to Testify
NYT: Democratic Upset in Deep Red Texas District Rattles Republicans
Semafor: Trump administration eyes drawdown in Minnesota
Events in Minneapolis have thrown Capitol Hill into turmoil, with a government shutdown increasingly likely. Hosts Annaylse Keller and Mike Ricci are joined by The Hill’s Al Weaver to discuss if Congress can find a way to pass funding bills. They discuss the rapidly changing dynamics, the key figures to watch and the reaction from the White House. Plus, the start of a recurring lookahead to the midterm elections.
Hosts: Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci
Guest: Al Weaver, The Hill
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
The Hill: Second fatal Minneapolis shooting puts Congress on verge of shutdown
Punchbowl: Senate GOP seeks way out of DHS funding clash
AP: The shootings in Minneapolis are upending the politics of immigration in Congress
Axios: DHS and ICE are under siege by Congress like never before
WBAL: Gov. Wes Moore urges Senate vote as Maryland redistricting fight heats up
As he steps away as co-host of CONTROL, Brendan Buck reflects on the last three years of Congress before opining on the news of the day with Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci. With momentum building, how many appropriations bills will Congress pass before the upcoming deadline? Will more lawmakers stand up for Jerome Powell and the Federal Reserve? Plus, Trump issues threats over a war powers resolution and Mike Johnson navigates a proposed ban on Congressional stock trading.
Hosts: Brendan Buck, Annalyse Keller, Mike Ricci
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
The Hill: House approves minibus spending bills in bipartisan 397-28 vote
POLITICO: DOJ opens probe into Fed’s Powell, drawing backlash from lawmakers
WSJ: Angry Trump Called GOP Defectors After War Powers Vote
POLITICO: House GOP stock trading ban bill set for Wednesday markup
Congress is back and has a very busy month ahead. Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller look ahead to debates around war powers, discharge petitions and veto overrides before offering predictions for the rest of 2026. Will there be another government shutdown? How many more members will retire? Will a vacancy open on the Supreme Court? All that and more on a new episode of CONTROL.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
Punchbowl News: Congress steps on the gas pedal
Politico: Senate to vote on war powers measure following Maduro ouster
Axios: House Republicans move to override Trump vetoes in rare show of defiance
NPR: More than 10% of Congress won't return to their seats after 2026
On the year’s final episode of CONTROL, Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller take a trip down memory lane to reminisce about the biggest stories of 2025 as told through the podcast. Then, Paul Kane, Washington Post Senior Congressional Correspondent, joins the show to look back on the first year of this Congress and what the second may have in store. How have the Congressional leaders performed? Will the legislative branch reassert itself with the White House? And are we seeing hints of the GOP moving beyond President Trump?
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Paul Kane, Washington Post
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
CBS News: Congress gears up for busy week on health care, national security
Roll Call: Senate eyes NDAA passage next week amid aviation safety worries
WaPo: ‘Not an easy call’: The Democrats who struggled with their shutdown vote
WaPo: Texas midterms point to ideological corners, not swing-state issues
CNN: After a year of Trump-inspired inaction, some Republicans in Congress are growing restless
WSJ: Trump’s Next Renovation Target: D.C.’s Golf Courses
On a new episode of CONTROL, hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller are joined by the Wall Street Journal’s Olivia Beavers to discuss the increasingly tense relationship between the speaker and some in his conference. With members questioning Speaker Johnson’s leadership, can he maintain control of his majority? Will lawmakers be able to address voter affordability concerns? Can Congress pass anything the rest of the year? And what does it all mean for the midterms less than a year from now?
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Olivia Beavers, Wall Street Journal
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
WSJ: Trump Ally Elise Stefanik Attacks Speaker Johnson’s Leadership
WSJ: Congress Turns Chaotic as Lawmakers Target Each Other
Puck: Johnson’s Career Crisis & The House G.O.P. Exodus
NBC News: Some House Republican women are in open revolt against Speaker Mike Johnson
POLITICO: Mike Johnson scrambles to pass Pentagon bill as GOP ranks seethe
The Hill: House cancels vote on the SCORE Act amid GOP opposition
NYT: Trump Blasts Lawmaker for Remaining Democrat After Receiving Pardon
Marjorie Taylor Greene heads for the exit and four members face formal reprimand votes – what does it all say about the state of the House of Representatives? Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller discuss another whirlwind week on Capitol Hill, touching on MTG, censures, FBI investigations, appropriations and more. Then, former congressman Patrick McHenry joins to share his analysis of the recent eruptions on the House floor and the factors driving discontent in the Republican Conference, predictions for the midterms, and advice for leadership on both sides of the aisle.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Patrick McHenry
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
Punchbowl News: Why MTG's missive rang true for House GOP
Axios: The worst good-paying job in America
New York Times: In the House, Censures Proliferate, Reflecting a Poisonous Climate
New York Times: ‘In Triage Every Day’: A Beleaguered Speaker Says He’s Overwhelmed
NBC News: FBI seeks interviews with six Democrats Trump accused of 'seditious behavior'
CBS News: Lindsey Graham blocks House-passed bill to repeal shutdown deal provision allowing $500,000 lawsuits from senators
Roll Call: GOP goes all out to hold Tennessee seat as Democrats look for 2026 omen
Punchbowl News: Inside Michael Whatley’s N.C. Senate bid
Ballotpedia: List of U.S. House incumbents who are not running for re-election in 2026
With the government reopened and the House back in session, Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller look back on this history-making shutdown to glean lessons for future fights. Then they look ahead to upcoming votes on the Epstein files and condemning Rep. Chuy Garcia. Plus, are we seeing a new Marjorie Taylor Greene? And is the appropriations process back on track?
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
POLITICO: Trump signs bill ending longest government shutdown in US history
Reuters: After Trump reversal, US House pushes forward on Epstein vote
CNN: ‘Humbly, I’m sorry’: Marjorie Taylor Greene says she’s turning a new leaf after years of divisive comments
Axios: House Dems fail to stop internal revolt on condemning Chuy García
POLITICO: The next shutdown threat is around the corner
The government shutdown nears its end and the recriminations are flying fast. Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller react to the breakthrough in the Senate and forecast a few possible hiccups in the House. Then, Adam Jentleson, President of the Searchlight Institute and former top aide to Harry Reid, joins the show to offer a Democratic perspective on the shutdown and debate the future of the filibuster.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Adam Jentleson
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
NYT: Senate Moves Toward Ending Shutdown After Democratic Defectors Relent
NBC News: Democrats rebel after 8 senators cut a deal to end the shutdown without ACA funds
Axios: Here's why Congressional Democrats are furious over the shutdown deal
Punchbowl: Johnson faces multitude of challenges in House vote to reopen government
POLITICO: House to return to laundry list of controversies after 7-week hiatus
Fox News: Trump pushes Republicans to end Senate filibuster
Bloomberg: A History of the Filibuster as the Root of Senate Dysfunction
Congress has a set a record with the longest government shutdown in history. As talks pick up, Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller wonder if this is the week a deal emerges. Then, the hosts take a step back with the help of Carl Hulse, the New York Times’ Chief Washington Correspondent, to examine the broader dynamics shaping action on Capitol Hill. What has differentiated this shutdown from past fights? Is the current dysfunction reversible? Can lawmakers reassert their authority? Is the filibuster doomed? All that and more only on CONTROL.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Carl Hulse, New York Times
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
Roll Call: Bipartisan talks to end shutdown gaining steam, senators say
Politico: John Thune says he is ‘optimistic’ Senate will move to end shutdown this week
Politico: ‘Utterly shameful’: Congress to crush US record this week for longest shutdown
Fox News: Sen. John Thune slams Democrats in fiery floor speech: ‘This isn’t a political game’
Axios: Senator objects to leaving D.C. for long weekend as SNAP benefits run dry
The Hill: Democrats up 8 points on generic ballot: Survey
NYT: Shutdowns, Obamacare and the Risks of Bargaining for Policy Wins in a Crisis
NYT: What Is the Filibuster and Why Does Trump Want It Gone?
As the government shutdown drags on, negotiations on the appropriations bills have taken a backseat. Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller are joined by Punchbowl News’ Samantha Handler to learn what has been going on behind the scenes. How far apart are the House and Senate? Why have defense hawks gone quiet? And is a deal even possible or are we headed for another CR?
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Samantha Handler, Punchbowl News
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
AP: Senate rejects bills to pay federal workers during government shutdown
Punchbowl News: Thune skeptical of ‘rifle-shot’ bills
NBC News: Largest federal workers union calls for an end to the shutdown, putting pressure on Democrats
Punchbowl News: Washington begins to confront the funding unthinkable
Roll Call: Appropriations chairman bullish on full-year spending bills after shutdown
Boston Globe: Susan Collins has reached one of the most powerful positions in Washington. It could hardly come at a worse time.
This week Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller are joined by GOP Representative Kevin Kiley (CA-03) to hear his perspective on the ongoing shutdown. The Congressman discusses why he continues showing up to Capitol Hill, his problems with Speaker Johnson’s decision to keep the House away, and why he still believes in public service.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Rep. Kevin Kiley
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
The Hill: Thune: Time to think about House returning to DC to vote on government funding
NBC News: Democrats rally at No Kings to protest Trump — but many say they're also unhappy with their own party
WaPo: Senate blocks military spending bill as shutdown drags on
New York Times: The Lonely House Republican Still Coming to Work During the Shutdown
WBUR: Why Republican Rep. Kevin Kiley wants to stop the national fight over redistricting
How Does the Shutdown End? Feat. Mychael Schnell
With the government shutdown dragging on into another week, Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller discuss how Congress got to this point and what may break the stalemate. Then, MSNBC congressional reporter Mychael Schnell joins the show to share what she is hearing on Capitol Hill and what pain points still exist to force a deal.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Mychael Schnell, MSNBC
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
Punchbowl: White House: We’re ready for a long shutdown
Politico: Democrats are in a GOP shutdown vise
The Hill: Jeffries, Lawler get into confrontation over ObamaCare: ‘You’re embarrassing yourself’
Fox News: Senate GOP resists 'nuclear option' as Dem shutdown standoff deepens
MSNBC: Private GOP call reveals early fissures over Mike Johnson’s shutdown strategy
With government funding negotiations at a standstill, Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller explore what may break the deadlock and how long this standoff could last. Then, Brendan and Annalyse welcome Phil Mattingly, CNN's Chief Domestic Correspondent, to the show for a discussion about OMB director Russ Vought’s influence, how the Trump administration is handling the shutdown, and if Congress will reassert its spending authority.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Phil Mattingly, CNN
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
Politico: ‘I don't know why this is so complicated’: Shutdown could drag on for days
Reuters: Another deadline in US shutdown: Will troops get paychecks on October 15?
Politico: House will stay out of session next week as Senate works to solve shutdown
CNN: Trump’s shutdown architect: Russ Vought’s plan to deconstruct the government was years in the making
With funding set to lapse in just hours, Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller discuss if a deal can be reached to avoid a government shutdown – and if not, how leaders will get out of one. Then they are joined by Seven Letter partner Mike Ricci, a top adviser to two GOP speakers, for a trip down memory lane as they revisit the 2013 government shutdown. What was the strategy going into and during the fight? When did things start going off the rails? And what lessons does that experience offer Democrats?
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Mike Ricci
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
AP: Congressional leaders leave White House meeting without deal to avoid government shutdown
NYT: How Congressional Leaders Are Positioning Themselves in the Shutdown Fight
Politico: Johnson urges GOP unity as shutdown deadline nears
WaPo: White House begins plan for mass firings if there’s a government shutdown
WaPo: Government shutdowns high on drama, but low on long-term political impact
AP: A look at previous government shutdowns and how they ended
Republicans and Democrats are gearing up for a shutdown and neither side appears ready to blink. Hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller are joined by HuffPost senior reporter Igor Bobic to break down the stalemate. They discuss the strange timeline, compare this debate to past shutdown fights, and question Senator Schumer’s endgame. Plus, will the GOP come to regret changing Senate rules? And will Congress conduct oversight of the FCC in the wake of the Jimmy Kimmel situation?
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Igor Bobic, HuffPost
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
Punchbowl: Both sides dig in as shutdown looms
Politico: Tables turn for Democrats as they use shutdown for leverage
Reuters: Democratic leaders in US Congress demand meeting with Trump as government shutdown looms
Politico: Thune mocks Schumer’s shutdown stance: He ‘knows where my office is’
NBC News: Senate Republicans poke holes in the filibuster despite vowing to protect it
HuffPost: GOP Senators Criticize FCC's Threats Against ABC And Jimmy Kimmel
After many close calls, is this the time Congress actually shuts down the government? With just two weeks left until funding runs out, Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller discuss the state-of-play. Can Speaker Johnson wrangle enough votes again? Will soaring tensions in the Senate scuttle any deal? They also talk about the murder of Charlie Kirk and its impact on the security needs for Members of Congress. Then, Joel Payne – the Chief Communications Officer at MoveOn – joins the show to offer the Democrat perspective on the shutdown fight and share his advice for the path forward for the party.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Gust: Joel Payne, MoveOn
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
Punchbowl: Congress is barreling toward a shutdown
The Hill: House GOP eyes stopgap into November to avert shutdown
POLITICO: Trump to GOP: Vote yes on the ‘clean’ CR
AP: Schumer warns of a shutdown if Republicans don’t accept Democrats’ health care demands
CNN: White House requests $58 million in security funding from Congress following Kirk assassination
NBC News: Senate Republicans trigger 'nuclear option,' changing rules to speed up Trump nominees
POLITICO: MoveOn demands Schumer and Jeffries ‘hold the line’ on health care in shutdown fight
After an extended summer break, Congress is back in session with one major item on the to-do list: fund the government. Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller debate the odds of a shutdown and the challenging dynamics facing Senate Minority Leader Schumer. They also discuss the latest with the Epstein case and the impending changes to confirming nominees in the Senate. Then, MSNBC’s Ali Vitali – host of “Way Too Early” and Senior Capitol Hill Correspondent – joins the show to offer her insights on Epstein, a potential shutdown, along with other items capturing the attention of Capitol Hill.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Ali Vitali, MSNBC
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
POLITICO: Congress splinters into unlikely factions over looming government shutdown
Punchbowl: 22 days until the shutdown deadline. Republicans need a plan
Breitbart: Exclusive—Senate Majority Leader John Thune: A Nominations Rules Change Is Coming
The Hill: GOP sets out to fulfill Trump’s wishes on crime bill
POLITICO: House Oversight receives Epstein estate files, including 'birthday book'
Six months into the Trump administration and with Congress headed out for a long summer recess, Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller are joined by POLITICO’s Jonathan Martin to take stock of where we are and where we might be headed. They cover President Trump’s interest – or lack thereof – in Congressional policy debates, the outlook for appropriations and what will be the defining issue of the midterm elections.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Jonathan Martin, POLITICO
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
New York Times: It Was Supposed to Be ‘Crypto Week’ in Congress. Then It Unraveled.
POLITICO: Russ Vought: Appropriations process ‘has to be less bipartisan’
NBC News: Bipartisan government funding is at risk of dying in Trump's Washington
POLITICO: Democrats seek shutdown strategy as White House plots to strip their power
CNN: Johnson shuts door on House vote before September on releasing Epstein files
POLITICO: How the GOP Regulars Won Over Donald Trump
With reconciliation in the rear-view mirror, the countdown is on to the next government funding deadline. But first Congress must deal with a rescissions package that is making the appropriations process even more contentious than usual. To break it all down, Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller are joined by POLITICO’s Katherine Tully-McManus, a congressional reporter focused on budget and appropriations. Can the Freedom Caucus reassert themselves? What is Minority Leader Schumer’s plan? And how long can Congress continue passing CRs?
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Katherine Tully-McManus, POLITICO
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
NBC News: Trump's push to claw back funding ignites a fight that threatens a government shutdown
Punchbowl: Senate Approps hits pause amid escalating drama
Axios: Schumer draws line in government funding fight
POLITICO: A tough week for Susan Collins
POLITICO: Cole: Hill GOP likely to pursue funding topline above White House request
Axios: House "crypto week" could change how Americans use, save money
The One Big Beautiful Bill is now law, with the Freedom Caucus again at the center of the drama. Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller are joined by Matt Fuller, Congressional Bureau Chief at NOTUS and long-time chronicler of the Freedom Caucus, to discuss the group’s history, recent actions and future moves. Plus, reconciliation “Winners and Losers” and a look ahead to appropriations, rescissions, and a potential Reconciliation 2.0.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Matt Fuller, NOTUS
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
Reuters: In July 4 ceremony, Trump signs tax and spending bill into law
Politico: Inside the Freedom Caucus’ final surrender
New York Times: Jeffries Breaks Record in Hourslong Speech Opposing Trump’s Policy Bill
NOTUS: Celsius, All-Nighters and Stalling Votes: Mike Johnson’s Strategy to Get Members to ‘Yes’
Punchbowl: With OBBB in the rearview, here’s what’s next
NOTUS: Senate Turns Its Attention to DOGE Cuts — With the Clock Ticking
As House and Senate leaders continue to move the One Big Beautiful Bill forward, Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller break down the latest developments in Congress. They offer their reactions to Senator Tillis’ retirement announcement, forecast how both the Freedom Caucus and moderates may react to the changes put in the bill by the Senate, and wonder what the point of a vote-a-rama is. At the end, Semafor’s Eleanor Mueller shares what she’s hearing on Capitol Hill.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Eleanor Mueller, Semafor
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
NBC News: GOP Sen. Thom Tillis won't seek re-election in North Carolina after drawing Trump's ire
Politico: GOP fight over clean energy threatens to derail megabill
Fox News: Trump's 'big, beautiful bill' hits another snag in House as conservative caucus raises red flag
Politico: Anxious House Republicans scramble to forestall Senate’s Medicaid cuts
ABC News: Polls show Americans largely oppose Trump's 'One Big Beautiful Bill,' but are more split on Medicaid, immigration specifics
Semafor: The wild-card fiscal hawk who may turn from ‘no’ to ‘yes’ on Trump’s megabill
As the self-imposed Fourth of July deadline nears, the Senate is set for a pivotal week in their efforts to pass the One Big Beautiful Bill. Hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller discuss changes to the bill from the “Byrd Bath” and what hurdles remain. Plus, they consider the Congressional reaction to strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities. Then, Punchbowl News Co-Founder John Bresnahan joins to share what he’s hearing on Capitol Hill about the OBBB and the potential for a vote on a War Powers Resolution.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: John Bresnahan, Punchbowl News
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
Punchbowl: When will reconciliation bill hit the Senate floor?
Axios: Trump's "big, beautiful bill:" What's in, what's out
Washington Examiner: Thune to keep Senate in session until reconciliation bill is passed
New York Times: Iran Strikes Inflame War Powers Debate in Congress, Dividing Both Parties
It is the feud that has consumed Washington, but what does President Trump and Elon Musk’s falling out mean for Congress’ agenda? Dasha Burns – POLITICO Playbook's Chief Correspondent, White House Bureau Chief and Host of "The Conversation” – joins Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller to discuss Musk’s rise and fall in Trumpworld and what it portends for the One Big Beautiful Bill. Plus, Dasha shares what it is like to cover this White House and how it feels to cold call the President.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Dasha Burns, POLITICO
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Andersson
Articles Discussed:
POLITICO: Trump, White House aides signal a possible détente with Musk
Washington Post: Republicans fume as Elon Musk complicates tax bill path
POLITICO: House Speaker says July 4 still the target for passing ‘big beautiful bill’
The Hill: Freedom Caucus warns it will ‘not accept’ Senate changes on green energy tax credits
Punchbowl: Rescissions fight looms even as reconciliation reigns
POLITICO: Rahm Emanuel wants to save the ‘weak’ and ‘woke’ Democratic Party brand
On a new episode of CONTROL, hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller reflect on Speaker Johnson’s latest magic act in passing the One Big Beautiful Bill before pivoting to the action in the Senate with the help of Semafor’s Congressional Bureau Chief Burgess Everett. They discuss the dynamics and personalities involved as Senators look to put their stamp on the OBBB. Can Majority Leader Thune deliver? Or will the whole thing fall apart?
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Burgess Everett
Audio Producer: Benji Englander
Video Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
Politico: Mike Johnson urges Senate not to make major changes to megabill
Punchbowl: Thune’s turn in the reconciliation grinder
Semafor: Ron Johnson takes on Trump’s ‘big, beautiful bill’
Politico: ‘We’re not going there': Thune vows not to overrule parliamentarian on megabill
NOTUS: White House to Send Congress a Rescission Package for Select DOGE Cuts
It’s the biggest week of Mike Johnson’s speakership, which means a trio of hosts are needed to break down all the intrigue around the One Big Beautiful Bill. Brendan Buck, Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci discuss the drama over SALT and Medicaid before previewing the upcoming, late-night rules committee hearing. Plus, is now the time for President Trump to wield his influence? And can Congress still get this done by the Fourth of July?
Hosts: Brendan Buck, Annalyse Keller, Mike Ricci
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
WaPo: Trump’s tax and immigration bill clears hurdle after late-night vote
Punchbowl: Another week of hard choices for Johnson
New York Times: These Are the Dueling Republican Factions Imperiling the Party’s Megabill
Politico: House GOP leaders want Trump to dissuade hard-liners on deeper Medicaid cuts
The Hill: Senate Republicans want to break up House’s Trump bill into bite-size pieces
Politico: ‘The Titanic’: Johnson predicts House’s ‘big, beautiful’ bill will sink in the Senate
Three House Committees are teed up to consider their pieces of the "Big, Beautiful Bill," but big questions remain. Hosts Annalyse Keller and Brendan Buck discuss how moderates largely triumphed in the debate on Medicaid, what fiscal hawks have to say about that, and how the SALT issue still threatens the entire reconciliation package. After weighing on what the Senate is up to and making predictions about when all this might get wrapped up, they welcome Zach Cohen of Bloomberg Tax. Zach shares what to expect in the (long) Ways and Means markup and dives into the policy decisions that the committee has made and still needs to make before the bill comes to the floor.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Zach Cohen
Producer: Benji Englander
Second Producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Discussed:
Punchbowl: Senate GOP leaders: House isn’t cutting enough
The Hill: GOP charges ahead despite deep divisions on Medicaid, SALT
Bloomberg: Why the SALT Deduction is Key to Trump's Tax Bill
NYTimes Opinion: The Political Tariff Trap for Republicans
With key markups delayed and internal GOP debates spilling into public view, hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller discuss the state of the “one, big, beautiful bill” – and if it will get passed at all. Then, Jonathan Burks, Executive Vice President of Economic and Health Policy at the Bipartisan Policy Center and former Chief of Staff to Speaker Ryan, joins the show to help Brendan and Annalyse get smart on all things Medicaid and offer his perspective on passing a massive tax bill.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Jonathan Burks
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
Punchbowl: Will Republicans ever get a reconciliation deal?
Politico: GOP leaders take more time for key megabill markup after Medicaid snags
Axios: Pressure intensifies for Medicaid decisions
Fox News: Senate Democrats predicting 'brutal' UN ambassador confirmation hearing for Mike Waltz
After a two-week recess, Members of Congress are returning to a packed schedule of reconciliation markups – but with deadlines already slipping, what kind of progress can the GOP make? Hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller discuss the path ahead, including timing, potential pitfalls and if moderates will stand firm in defense of Medicaid. Plus, a debate about Donald Trump’s poll numbers 100 days into his term along with some assorted political odds and ends.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles discussed:
Politico: Mike Johnson’s tight megabill timeline is on a collision course with reality
CNN: GOP centrists borrow hardliner tactics to sway Trump agenda
Politico: White House wariness tempers GOP plans to share food-aid spending with states
The Hill: Trump’s flirtation with millionaire tax increase gets strong pushback from the right
NBC News: What the polls say about Trump's presidency at 100 days
Punchbowl: House Republican leaders eye rescissions vote in early May
All are eyes are on the House of Representatives (again). Hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller discuss the fallout from the Senate passing the budget resolution and gauge its chances in the House. Can Speaker Johnson quell the rising complaints among the Republican Conference and keep the reconciliation process moving forward? Plus, after days of tariff-induced market turmoil, is now the time Congressional Republicans stand up to President Trump? At the end, the rise and fall of the proxy voting discharge petition.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
CNN: Senate GOP adopts budget blueprint to advance Trump agenda as spending fight consumes Capitol Hill
NBC News: Some House Republicans voice opposition to the Senate's newly adopted budget for Trump's agenda
POLITICO: House GOP leaders vow to push forward with budget vote
The Hill: 7 GOP senators sign on to bill to check Trump’s trade authority
NYT: Johnson Reaches Agreement to Kill Proxy Voting Proposal in the House
It is another make or break week for Congressional Republicans as the Senate tees up a vote on a budget resolution. Hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller are joined by Punchbowl News’ Laura Weiss to answer some big questions about the reconciliation debate. Is the new timeline feasible? How will the two chambers handle different budget instructions? And will the Senate overrule the parliamentarian if need be?
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Laura Weiss
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
Punchbowl: The big moments this week that will define Republicans’ tax plans
Politico: Senate GOP to start moving budget plan as soon as Wednesday
Politico: ‘Never been done’: Why Republicans might approve a budget whose numbers don’t match up
New York Times: A Special Election That Was Supposed to Be a Snoozer Is Suddenly Buzzing
NBC News: Inside Trump's shock decision to pull the plug on Elise Stefanik's nomination
The House and Senate return following the passage of a CR, and the next thing on the table is a return to budget reconciliation negotiations. Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller are joined by Liam Donovan, senior political strategist at Bracewell, to talk about where discussions stand, what obstacles remain, and how long this thing may take. Plus what happened with the Democrats on the CR vote, the firestorm its created, and how they try to move forward.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Liam Donovan
Producer: Benji Englander
Second producer: Regina Anderson
Articles Mentioned:
Axios: Behind the Curtain: Dems' dark, deep hole
Axios: "They hate us": Democrats confront their own Tea Party
The New York Times Opinion: There’s a Price for Promising What Isn’t Possible in Congress
The Atlantic: The Trump Administration Accidentally Texted Me Its War Plans
With government funding set to run out in a matter of days, Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller are joined by POLITICO congressional reporter Nicholas Wu to assess the shutdown state-of-play. They discuss if Speaker Johnson can muster the votes for a CR, the differing strategies of House and Senate Democrats, and what the censure of Al Green portends for the final vote tally. Plus, what Democrats will discuss at their retreat as they look for a way out of the wilderness.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Nicholas Wu
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
NBC News: GOP-led Congress races to avert government shutdown ahead of Friday deadline
Politico: House Dems still offer no promises to help GOP avoid shutdown
Axios: Senate Democrats warm to helping GOP avoid government shutdown
Politico: Al Green censured for joint session outburst
Politico: House Democrats set to hear from governors, pollsters and more at issues conference
Before President Trump addresses a Joint Session of Congress, Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller discuss the outlook for his agenda: What are the next steps for reconciliation? Can the Senate make the budget math work? And will a government shutdown get in the way? Then, Seven Letter’s Mike Ricci joins the show to talk about State of the Union responses and Chad Pergram, Fox News Senior Congressional Correspondent, shares his insights based on more than 30 years covering Capitol Hill.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guests: Chad Pergram and Mike Ricci
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
AP: What’s next for Trump agenda after House GOP approves tax breaks and slashed spending in budget
Politico: GOP tax chief voiced ‘huge concern’ over Senate tax plan at White House meeting
Politico: Senate Republicans say House budget won’t fly with them
Fox News: Reporter's Notebook: All night long
CNN: Trump’s speech to Congress will be an explanation of his fast-paced first days in office
Roll Call: Slotkin leads return of the national security women for Democrats
Axios: Fuming Democrats struggle with Trump speech strategy
After weeks of buildup, the moment of truth arrives – can Speaker Johnson pass the budget resolution? Hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller dive into all the scenarios at play and how the Senate will respond after advancing down their two-bill track. Later, they debate the congressional politics of DOGE and if lawmakers can reassert their power of the purse. At the end, trying to answer the question “who is the leader of the Democratic party?”
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed
Brendan’s New York Times Op-Ed on DOGE
Punchbowl: Johnson’s task: A tricky budget resolution vote followed by a shutdown fight
The Hill: Johnson makes ‘prayer request’ ahead of critical vote on Trump agenda bill
AP: Senate Republicans approve budget framework, pushing past Democratic objections after all-night vote
WaPo: Back in their districts, GOP lawmakers get an earful on DOGE and Musk
New York Times: Bracing for a Shutdown Fight, Democrats Warn Their Votes Are Not a Given
Axios: Democrats spot opening to kneecap GOP's budget plans
With the House and Senate on a collision course over reconciliation, hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller explore which strategy has the best chance of success and how some of the wonkier aspects of the process may trip up the GOP’s plans. Then, NBC News’ senior White House correspondent Garrett Haake joins the show to offer his insight on the Trump administration’s early actions, the Trump-Musk relationship, and JD Vance’s role as the “Senate whisperer.”
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Garrett Haake
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed
Punchbowl: The reconciliation race: Can the House get its act together?
Politico: Inside the House GOP clash over tax cuts
CBS News: CBS News poll — Trump has positive approval amid "energetic" opening weeks; seen as doing what he promised
WaPo: Some Democrats vow to use leverage in government funding fight
NBC News: Elon Musk gets quiet White House reminders his power isn't unchecked
Politico: JD Vance Aced His First Test. The Next One Will Be Tougher.
What a year the past month has been – to help make sense of the flurry of news over the last two weeks, Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller are joined by POLITICO’s Capitol Bureau Chief Rachael Bade. Together, they discuss the latest on House Republicans’ spending fight, Elon Musk’s influence on the White House, and the outlook for President Trump’s most controversial nominees.
Articles Discussed:
Politico: Musk steamrolls Washington as he remakes the federal government
NYT: ‘We Have No Coherent Message’: Democrats Struggle to Oppose Trump
WaPo: Trump halts tariffs on Canada and Mexico as both offer new border security plans
Politico: The GOP’s Unreliable Cutter-in-Chief
Reuters: Gabbard boosted in bid to become chief US spy ahead of committee vote
Politico: How Trump’s orbit used blunt force to squeeze Hegseth through
President Trump is back in the Oval Office. Hosts Annalyse Keller and Brendan Buck discuss the flurry of activity on Inauguration Day – the speech, the executive orders, the pardons and more – and analyze what it means for Capitol Hill.
Hosts: Annalyse Keller and Brendan Buck
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
NYT: What Trump Did on Day 1: Tracking His Biggest Moves
Politico: Trump closes first day with an avalanche of executive orders
All eyes are on the Senate this week with 13 of President-elect Trump’s nominees slated for confirmation hearings. After first discussing the latest developments on reconciliation, hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller are joined by Annie Karni, congressional correspondent at The New York Times, to assess the state-of-play on some of Trump’s more controversial picks. At the end, what Senator Fetterman was doing at Mar-a-Lago and why have Democrats changed their tune on immigration.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Annie Karni
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
ABC News: Republicans huddle with Trump in Florida as they plot out GOP agenda
Politico: Trump tells House Republicans to find a ‘fair number’ on SALT
Politico: House Republicans and Trump discuss tying California wildfire aid to debt ceiling
NYT: Fetterman Accepts Trump’s Invitation to Meet
WaPo: Democrats warm to Laken Riley bill as Senate to take up measure
The 119th Congress is off to a rollicking start and hosts Brendan Buck and Mike Ricci analyze the most pressing questions: After securing victory on the first ballot, how strong is Speaker Johnson’s standing in the Conference? Will he be able to move Trump’s agenda through the House? Drawing on their experience from 2017, they offer their opinions on reconciliation strategy.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Mike Ricci
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
CNN: Johnson wins dramatic vote to remain House speaker
Politico: Johnson tells House Republicans that Trump wants one ‘big beautiful’ reconciliation package
NBC News: Speaker Johnson's push to pass Trump's agenda in one massive bill faces big hurdles
Roll Call: Trump open to two-step budget plan despite earlier comments
It’s the last week in the legislative calendar and the last episode of CONTROL for the year, leaving plenty of hot topics for hosts Brendan Buck, Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci. The trio discuss the relationship between President-elect Trump, Speaker Johnson and Incoming Senate Majority Leader Thune as they map out a plan for reconciliation and analyze the drama at the Steering Committee. At the end, what the hosts are looking out for in 2025.
Hosts: Brendan Buck, Annalyse Keller, Mike Ricci
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
Fox News: President-elect Trump takes in Army-Navy game with powerhouse posse
The Hill: Johnson says new GOP agenda will be ‘very aggressive beginning right out of the gate’
The Hill: Thune expects tax package by summer: ‘Failure is not an option’
Politico: Conservatives fall in line behind Mike Johnson ahead of speaker race
Punchbowl: Inside how Johnson handled steering and what it means for the pitfalls ahead
It’s the question that shape the agenda next year: Will Congress do two reconciliation bills in 2025 or jam everything into one package? Hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller discuss the differing plans from incoming Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Ways and Means Chair Jason Smith, as well as answer key questions about the reconciliation process. Then, they are joined by Manu Raju, CNN's Chief Congressional Correspondent, to talk about the Senate confirmation battles for Pete Hegseth, Tulsi Gabbard and Kash Patel.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Manu Raju
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
CNN: GOP rifts open over Trump agenda as legislative landmines await new Congress
WaPo: GOP caught between immigration and tax cuts for early 2025 priorities
Reuters: Embattled Trump nominees Hegseth, Gabbard visit Senate seeking support
CNN: Key GOP senators begin to fall in line to support Kash Patel and keep door open for Pete Hegseth
Punchbowl: NDAA moves complicate passage
The House and Senate return this week to begin wrapping up this Congress, while planning for the next one is picking up speed. With Republicans set to hold the smallest majority in about a century next Congress, hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller break down how the margin will impact policymaking next year. They get into what’s left on the agenda for December before asking how seriously we should all take the DOGE. Then, they welcome former Parliamentarian of the House Tom Wickham for a deep dive into some of the big procedural questions facing Washington. Can the President really just declare Congress in recess to make appointments? How can immigration and tariffs fit into the reconciliation equation? And what to make of the House trying to dislodge the ethics report on Matt Gaetz? It’s all critical primer as we head into the next Congress.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Tom Wickham
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
CBS News: Incoming House majority squeezed by Trump's planned appointments
Fox News: Present and Accounted For: House Republicans' small majority could make attendance a priority
CNBC: Musk, Ramaswamy to discuss DOGE with GOP leaders on Capitol Hill Dec. 5
Politico: Congress readies another funding punt ahead of pre-Christmas shutdown deadline
Roll Call: Trump and recess appointments: A procedural and legal quagmire
AP: Trump and Republicans in Congress eye an ambitious 100-day agenda, starting with tax cuts
It’s not the start of a joke, it’s a new episode of CONTROL! Hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller discuss the state of the Johnson-Trump relationship before turning their attention to the big questions in the Senate: Will Matt Gaetz be confirmed? Will the Judiciary Committee get access to the ethics report? And how will new GOP Leader John Thune navigate this process? Then, Axios’ Hans Nichols – author of the new daily newsletter Hill Leaders – joins the show to share what he’s hearing about all the major figures on Capitol Hill.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Hans Nichols
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed
Fox News: Trump flanked by top allies, cabinet picks at UFC 309: 'USA, USA'
Politico: Trump endorses Johnson hours ahead of GOP speaker vote
NBC News: House Ethics Committee to meet Wednesday to discuss Matt Gaetz report
Politico: Matt Gaetz feels the heat
Axios: Trump dares Senate Republicans with Gaetz nomination
NPR: Trump picks loyalists for top jobs, testing loyalty of Senate GOP
On a milestone anniversary episode, hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller dig into the Senate leadership race and all its drama, including the debate over recess appointments, the influence of Elon Musk and whether Donald Trump will offer an endorsement. Then, they turn their attention to the House and the battle for Republican Conference Chair, as well as what to look for during the Lame Duck. At the end, Producer Benji joins to recap the results of the CONTROL Election Prediction Contest.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
Fox News: Trump allies back Rick Scott in GOP Senate leader race as they look to influence secret ballot
The Hill: Senate GOP leadership candidates scramble to support Trump’s demand for recess appointments
Axios: House Republicans swarm race for Elise Stefanik's leadership job
WaPo: Congress set to extend government shutdown deadline into Trump’s term
Washington is red – so hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller had to gather to discuss the results of a surprisingly quick election result. How did Donald Trump complete his comeback? How will the GOP use their control of Congress? Will it be Mike Johnson in the Speaker’s chair? All that and more on a special episode of CONTROL.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Producer: Benji Englander
Brendan’s MSNBC oped
One week to go, so it’s time to make some wild guesses. Hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller break down the closing arguments and then make predictions about the key races up and down the ballot. Play along with CONTROL’s Election Prediction Contest and see how you stack up against our hosts: https://forms.gle/uZYiQabtLhwVzqrr9
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
NYT: Pro-Harris Super PAC Raises Concerns About Focusing on Trump and Fascism
AP: Progressives warn Harris must change her closing message as the election looms
NYT: 6 Takeaways From Donald Trump’s 3-Hour Podcast With Joe Rogan
CNN: Harris to deliver closing argument speech at Ellipse, site of Trump’s January 6 rally
NBC News: Speaker Mike Johnson fights to save the House Republican majority — and his job
On the latest episode of CONTROL, Brendan Buck and Annlayse Keller continue their series of special bonus episodes focused on some of the races and dynamics that will determine CONTROL of the House and the Senate. The duo first discuss the latest happenings from the campaign trail and a potential nightmare scenario in the House next January. Then, they welcome on GOP strategist Jessica Anderson of the Sentinel Action Fund to talk about how Republicans have improved their early vote ground game and their path to victory in November.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Jessica Anderson
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed
AP: Trump works the fry station and holds a drive-thru news conference at a Pennsylvania McDonald’s
NBC News: Harris has no current plans to campaign with Biden before Election Day
Politico: The Very Real Scenario Where Trump Loses and Takes Power Anyway
Fox News: Georgia casts over 1.4M ballots as critical battleground shatters early voting records
Politico: Republicans are trying to up their early voting game — but Trump keeps getting in the way
WFAE: After years of decrying mail-in ballots, GOP showing signs of strength in early NC voting
With just weeks to go until Election Day, hosts Brendan Buck and Annlayse Keller kick-off a series of special bonus episodes focused on some of the races and dynamics that will determine CONTROL of the House and the Senate. After discussing the debate on the Hill around disaster relief, Brendan and Annalyse talk through the election state of play and the shrinking number of competitive races. Then, longtime democratic operative Doug Thornell joins the show to offer the case for Democrats re-taking the House.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Doug Thornell
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed
NBC News: Mike Johnson won't commit to bringing House back before the election for more hurricane relief
Politico: Milton raises stakes for Congress to pass more disaster aid
WaPo: Control of House heads toward another cliffhanger election
New York Times: Far From Presidential Battlegrounds, Blue States Could Decide Congress
The Hill: Democrats see abortion, Harris as leading them back to House majority
With Speaker Johnson coming up short on his six-month CR plan, hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller discuss the ramifications of the new December funding deadline. They debate how various election scenarios will impact Speaker Johnson’s standing in the conference and quest to keep his job. Then, Bloomberg Government’s Jonathan Tamari joins the show to offer his perspective on the CR and share some insights about the pivotal state in this election: Pennsylvania.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalsye Keller
Guest: Jonathan Tamari
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
CNN: Speaker Johnson unveils short-term spending bill, urges members to avoid shutdown
Politico Playbook: Why Trump wanted a shutdown
Axios: Johnson's colleagues baffled by his shutdown strategy
Pittsburgh Post Gazette: Trump returning to Western Pennsylvania today; Harris to head to Pittsburgh.
Philadelphia Inquirer: How Pa.’s undecided voters are processing their decision with just weeks until the election
The Economist: Pennsylvania, the crucial battleground in America’s election
On a new episode of CONTROL, hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller discuss the latest efforts to avoid a government shutdown. With Speaker Johnson’s original plan in tatters, what’s his next move? And how will it affect his relationship with Tom Emmer and Donald Trump? Then, Burgess Everett, the Semafor congressional bureau chief, joins the show to discuss all things Senate: spending, IVF, leadership races, and more.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Burgess Everett
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
Punchbowl: House GOP no closer to resolving spending mess
New York Times: Déjà Vu for Mike Johnson as Internal Strife Stalls Spending Plan
The Hill: Trump complicates Speaker Johnson’s plan to avoid government shutdown
Axios: The lame duck farm bill push
Fox News: Schumer revives Dem-backed IVF bill after Trump proposal
Axios: Scoop: McConnell's power play over vote for his replacement
Congress is back, Brendan is back and CONTROL is back on Shutdown Watch. Hosts Annalyse Keller and Brendan Buck talk to Punchbowl’s Jake Sherman about where the spending fight stands and what moves party leaders will look to make. They discuss Speaker Johnson’s strategy, the impact of the upcoming election as well as Republican’s fundraising woes. Plus, Annalyse and Brendan preview tonight’s presidential debate and the potential for divided government no matter who takes the White House.
Hosts: Annalyse Keller and Brendan Buck
Producer: Benji Englander
Guest: Jake Sherman
Articles Discussed
Punchbowl: Congress returns as all eyes turn to Philadelphia
Punchbowl: House Republican leaders post big August hauls amid GOP money woes
New York Times: Trump and Harris Neck and Neck After Summer Upheaval, Times/Siena Poll Finds
Washington Post: Even in victory, Harris or Trump could earn a dubious prize: Hostile Congress
The House may be out, but recess has not yet begun for CONTROL hosts Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci. After discussing the latest on the Trump assassination attempt investigations, JD Vance’s early struggles, VP Harris’s potential running mates, and some upcoming primaries, two very special guests join the show. First, Brendan Buck calls in to talk about the floundering appropriations process. Then, former Speaker John Boehner joins the show to offer his perspective on appropriations, President Biden’s withdrawal, Speaker Johnson and more.
Hosts: Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci
Guests: Former Speaker John Boehner and Brendan Buck
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed
Politico: House leadership appoints Trump shooting task force members
NBC News: Trump agrees to give a victim interview to the FBI after assassination attempt
WSJ: Secret Service Director Resigns Amid Anger Over Trump Shooting
NYT: JD Vance Stumbles in His Debut, as Democrats Go on Offense
Bloomberg: Harris’ Running-Mate Search Zeroes In on Three Top Contenders
Roll Call: Rep. Cori Bush faces well-funded prosecutor in Missouri primary
Spokesman Review: Central Washington’s Dan Newhouse faces 7 challengers in a primary that tests Trump’s hold on GOP
The Tennessean: Johnston touts record, wins traditional GOP backers in race for Tennessee's 5th District
Politico: House Republicans bail on another spending bill as their summer funding ambitions fizzle
After one of the most newsworthy two-week stretches in recent memory, Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci are back to make sense of everything that’s happened and where things may go. From President Biden’s decision not to stand for re-election to the groundswell of support for Vice President Harris to the assassination attempt on former President Trump to JD Vance’s debut at the RNC, the political fallout will be felt in the halls of Congress and around the country for years to come. Plus, Speaker Johnson marks a noteworthy milestone and Bibi Netanyahu heads to Washington.
Hosts: Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
Politico: Kamala Harris clears the path to the nomination as potential challengers fall in line
NYT: Harris Raised $81 Million in First 24 Hours as Candidate
AP: Who’s No. 2? Four leading Democrats emerge as a possible running mate for Kamala Harris
AP: Biden continues to recover from COVID-19, stays out of public view after ending his 2024 campaign
AP: JD Vance introduces himself as Trump’s running mate and makes direct appeal to his native Rust Belt
Punchbowl: The Canvass RNC recap: Most prefer Youngkin over Vance for VP
NYT: Seeking Answers, Lawmakers From Both Parties Ask Secret Service Chief to Quit
Punchbowl: Trump’s Capitol Hill Cabinet
WaPo: Harris won’t preside over Netanyahu’s speech to Congress
NBC News: Matt Gaetz and Kevin McCarthy's feud erupts at Republican convention
As President Biden works to shore up support on Capitol Hill following his disastrous debate performance, Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci discuss the factors at play for congressional Democrats. How can Hakeem Jeffries maintain unity? What is the impact on down-ballot races? And what should House Republicans be doing amid all this? Plus, the appropriations process inches forward, the Senate’s workload remains a mystery, and the left emerges victorious across the pond.
Hosts: Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
Politico: Hill Dems brace for fight over Biden’s future to get worse
Politico: Biden’s Survival Plan: Decry ‘Elite’ Critics, Appeal to His Base
Politico: House Republicans request interview with White House physician
WaPo: Trump running mate decision nears, with Vance, Rubio at center of talks
NBC News: House and Senate races draw renewed focus for Democrats after Biden's bad debate
NYT: McCarthy’s Revenge Tour Rolls On, With Mixed Results
Axios: Rep. Celeste Maloy holds razor-thin lead in GOP primary re-election bid
BBC: UK election: What's happened and what comes next?
The Guardian: France election: surprise win for leftwing alliance keeps Le Pen’s far right from power
The House is back from recess and so are hosts Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci. Appropriations bills are front and center this week, but the duo is also keeping their eyes on some other long-running topics, including Speaker Johnson’s oversight prongs, House primaries and the Senate leadership race – not to mention the Presidential debate and the British general election. With little time before the next recess, Congress has a lot to cover.
Hosts: Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
The Hill: House set to dive into spending bills
Punchbowl: House GOP Oversight misses Biden, but his allies pay the price
WaPo: The establishment wins: Primary voters keep backing incumbents
CNN: The ‘MAGA civil war’ that threatens to claim another conservative Republican
NYT: What to Know About Jamaal Bowman’s Bitter Democratic Primary Race
Politico: Conservatives rock race to replace McConnell with hardline push
Axios: McConnell eyes his next move
Reuters: UK PM Sunak's Conservatives set for heavy election defeat, polls forecast
The Telegraph: Welcome to the most unpopular G7 summit ever
Politico: Scorched-earth summer: Biden, Sunak and Macron go negative
As the fallout from the Trump verdict continues to shape Congress, hosts Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci debate the latest moves from Republicans in the House and Senate targeting the Biden admin: will the vote to hold Merrick Garland in contempt succeed? What other actions can the House take? And can Mike Lee and other GOP senators hold up the Senate? Later, more Primary Watch and a lesson in optics management from British PM Rishi Sunak.
Hosts: Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
Washington Examiner: House GOP jump-starts push to hold Garland in contempt of Congress
New York Times: After Trump’s Conviction, House Republicans Vow Again to Target His Foes
New York Times: Far-Right Vows to Tie Up the Senate to Avenge Trump Are So Far Mostly Empty
AP: Speaker Johnson appoints two Trump allies to a committee that handles classified intelligence
BBC: Sunak's D-Day absence: How the PM walked into an election blunder
With the House set to debate its first appropriations bill, hosts Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci analyze the outlook for appropriations season and some other happenings around Capitol Hill. They discuss the Fauci hearing, ICC sanctions, the border, and reproductive rights. Plus, some musings on elections taking place on both sides of the pond: House primaries and the UK general election.
Hosts: Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
Roll Call: Scalise lays out ambitious summer appropriations timetable
NBC News: Fauci parries with Republicans in combative hearing about Covid's origins and possibility of a lab leak
Semafor: Speaker Mike Johnson promises a Republican mega-bill that would define Donald Trump’s second term
Axios: Behind the Curtain: Speaker Johnson's secret muse
Politico: Senate border vote fails again, losing support from both sides
CBS News: Senate Democrats to unveil package to protect IVF as party makes reproductive rights push this month
New York Times: U.K. 2024 General Election: What to Know
After falling short months ago, Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is bringing up the bipartisan immigration bill for another vote – what’s the play? Hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller are joined by new co-host Mike Ricci, a partner at Seven Letter and former top advisor to Speakers Ryan and Boehner, to try to make sense of Schumer’s actions and a few other topics bedeviling Capitol Hill. The trio discuss upcoming votes related to Israel, President Biden’s battle with the House Oversight Committee over executive privilege, and the outlook for the appropriations process. Plus, a check-in on Rep. Tom Cole’s primary.
Hosts: Brendan Buck, Annalyse Keller and Mike Ricci
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
Reuters: Schumer says US Senate will try again to pass border bill
ABC News: Biden asserts executive privilege over audio of interview with special counsel Hur
CNN: House committee meeting devolves into chaos as Greene and Ocasio-Cortez trade barbs
Axios: House Republicans "curry favor" with Trump trial visits
Politico: Greg Steube has achieved a rare feat: Successfully forcing a bill to the House floor
Punchbowl: Spending wars are back as House GOP seeks big cuts
The chips fell with the House resoundingly voting to table a motion to oust Speaker Johnson. Hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller dive into the next moves for the key players: Will Marjorie Taylor Greene trigger another vote? How will Speaker Johnson maintain party unity? And will anyone face consequences for their vote? Plus, a discussion of the FAA reauthorization and some drama in primary races.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
Brendan’s Politico OpEd
Politico: Greene's rebellion sparks new talk of consequences for House GOP rebels
Axios: Congress plans all-out brawl with Biden over pausing Israel arms transfers
Atlanta Journal Constitution: Marjorie Taylor Greene’s constituents mixed over effort to oust House speaker
KFOR: Who is Paul Bondar, running to unseat Tom Cole? We found him.
Is this the week that Marjorie Taylor Greene finally forces a vote to remove Speaker Johnson? Following a marathon meeting in the Speaker’s Office Monday afternoon, Greene and her allies leave us waiting on what’s next. In the meantime, hosts Annalyse Keller and Brendan Buck break down what to watch if a vote moves forward. They also discuss Johnson’s reported comments about punishing troublemaker members and changing the rules for the Motion to Vacate. And they get into the drama last week with a handful of Republicans joining Democrats to pass a rare motion to recommit. All that before being joined by Andrew Solender, congressional reporter for Axios, to talk about how Democrats are viewing all this chaos and how long Johnson can count on them to keep his job.
Hosts: Annalyse Keller and Brendan Buck
Guest: Andrew Solendar
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
CNN: Speaker Johnson faces threat of ouster vote in pivotal week as he meets with Marjorie Taylor Greene
Punchbowl: What Johnson told big donors behind closed doors
The Hill: GOP hard-liners use rare procedural move to block leadership-backed bill
Axios: Democrats warn Mike Johnson: Don't get used to us saving you
More like Motion to Vacation… With foreign aid passed and a light floor schedule this week, hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller take a look down the road at what Congress needs to accomplish between now and the election, starting with FAA reauthorization. Then they discuss the latest developments with Speaker Johnson and the Motion to Vacate before offering an update on impeachment.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
The Hill: FAA bill adds 5 long-distance flights to Reagan National airport
CNN: Johnson calls on Columbia University president to resign during tense news conference
Punchbowl: Jim Jordan ramps up his inside game
CNN: How the House GOP’s Biden impeachment effort fell apart
On a special bonus episode of CONTROL, hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller break down how Speaker Johnson got the foreign aid package over the line and what the fallout may be. Will he survive a Motion to Vacate? Can the “coalition government” of Republicans and Democrats keep the House functioning? And what else can Congress get done the rest of the year?
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
Brendan’s NYT oped
AP: The House passes billions in aid for Ukraine and Israel after months of struggle. Next is the Senate
Politico: Bipartisan outrage boils over at threat to Johnson’s speakership
WaPo: Senate votes to dismiss impeachment charges against Mayorkas
Iran’s attack on Israel has scrambled the House calendar – with an aid package now the top priority. Hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller debate what will be included and how it can get through Congress. Then, they turn their attention down south where former President Trump offered support for Speaker Johnson, who also scored a win with the FISA vote. Can he capitalize on the momentum or will failed rule votes trip him up?
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed
NYT: Johnson Says the House Will Vote on an Israel Bill in the Coming Days
WSJ: Mike Johnson Nears Big Decision: Help Israel, Ukraine or Both?
NYT: Trump to Meet an Embattled Johnson, Putting Their Tortured Ties on Display
USA Today: 'I stand with the speaker.' Trump backs Speaker Mike Johnson amid rebellion from right
CNN: House passes modified surveillance bill after it failed earlier this week
The solar eclipse has come and gone, but the Motion to Vacate still casts a shadow over Speaker Johnson. On the latest episode of CONTROL, hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller discuss the paths available for Speaker Johnson to both pass Ukraine aid and keep his job. Plus, they talk about the impending impeachment trial for Secretary Mayorkas and try to make sense of the major retirements among committee chairs.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
ABC News: DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas impeachment proceedings: What to expect
WaPo: Speaker Johnson’s job is on the line as the House returns
WSJ: Mike Johnson Prepares to Unwrap Mystery Ukraine Aid Package
WaPo: ‘Increasingly chaotic’: Why House Republicans are heading for the exits
Marjorie Taylor Greene filed a motion to vacate the chair, so there is only one thing Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller can do – emergency pod! They cover all the angles of this surprise development, including Greene’s options, her motivation and how much support she has.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
NYT: House Passes Spending Bill to Avert Shutdown, Prompting G.O.P. Mutiny
Politico: It's happening again: Greene moves to force vote on ousting speaker
House Republicans are back from their retreat and CONTROL is back on shutdown watch. Hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller discuss the latest in the spending negotiations and if the dispute over border security funding will lead to a government shutdown. Then, they talk about the low morale in the GOP conference, as evidenced by the low turnout at last week’s retreat and the surprise retirement of Rep. Ken Buck. Finally, they question what else might get done this Congress, including Ukraine funding, tax reform, and impeachment.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
WaPo: Border security deadlock heightens risk of government shutdown
AP: House Republicans are seeking unity at an idyllic West Virginia retreat. Many didn’t bother to come
The Hill: Ken Buck slams ‘ridiculous’ claims he’s resigning to hurt Boebert’s election chances
Politico: Johnson says he expects to take up Ukraine aid with Democratic votes
Washington Examiner: Mayorkas impeachment trial takes backseat to congressional spending fight
Politico: As Biden impeachment stalls, House GOP turns to backup plans
In a rare week without a shutdown deadline, hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller take stock of the latest appropriations negotiations and some other topics being discussed around the Hill, including Ukraine funding, impeachment, and the fallout from SOTU. Then, the pair analyze the state of the Senate leadership races: who’s in, who’s out, and who’s keeping their powder dry. Plus, a game of “What Political News Reached Annalyse on Vacation!"
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
NBC News: Conservatives are furious, but they're not threatening Speaker Johnson's job
AP: Biden signs a package of spending bills passed by Congress just hours before a shutdown deadline
Axios: Biden sends his $7.3 trillion budget to Congress
Washington Post: White House-Justice Dept. tensions high as Hur prepares to testify on Hill
Politico: Ernst to run against Cotton for Senate GOP No. 3 this fall
With Annalyse on vacation, Brendan Buck is at the controls during a busy week on Capitol Hill. First, following Senator Mitch McConnell’s announcement that he’s stepping down as Republican Leader, Brendan welcomes Paul Kane of the Washington Post to talk about how McConnell changed the Senate and explain the dividing lines in the Republican Conference as it chooses its next leader. Plus, it’s SOTU week! Mike Ricci – Seven Letter Partner and former top aide to Speakers Ryan and Boehner – joins the show to discuss the State of the Union: what makes a good speech, what makes for a bad response, and what to watch for on Thursday night.
Host: Brendan Buck
Guests: Paul Kane and Mike Ricci
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
AP: Congressional leaders come out with 6 spending bills in a drive to avoid a partial shutdown
WaPo: Senate Republicans will face leadership struggle between Trump, McConnell views
NBC News: Biden to juggle competing political demands in State of the Union address
With Congress facing a partial government shutdown at the end of the week, hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller discuss the roadblocks to funding the government and Speaker Johnson’s continued struggle to lead the Republican conference. They talk about the threats Johnson faces from the House Freedom Caucus in moving a spending package and efforts to advance Ukraine foreign aid legislation. Plus, they debate whether Democrats will bail out Johnson if he faces a motion to vacate the chair from the right and, of course, make predictions on the likelihood of a shutdown – all while looking ahead to next week’s SOTU address!
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
Washington Post: GOP elder statesmen’s message to Johnson: Stop dithering
Washington Post: How House members are trying to circumvent Johnson
New York Times: Days Before Shutdown Deadline, Biden Summons Congressional Leaders for Talks
Reuters: Ukraine supporters lay path to try to force US House vote on aid bill
With Speaker Johnson announcing he won’t put the Senate’s foreign aid bill on the House floor, hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller break down the looming showdown and what options are available to pass the aid package. Later, they talk about how the House’s efforts to impeach Secretary Mayorkas and pass Israel funding fell apart, Speaker Johnson’s leadership style, and why listeners should not forget about the upcoming government funding deadline – March will be here before you know it!
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
Washington Post: Speaker Johnson rejects Israel, Ukraine aid package ahead of Senate vote
Politico: Jeffries signals he's open to using discharge petition to force vote on foreign aid
New York Times: A Suddenly Media-Shy Speaker Can’t Answer Questions. He’s on the Phone.
CNN: Speaker Mike Johnson reverses course and will not endorse Matt Rosendale for Senate in Montana after blowback
New York Times: Is the Senate Becoming the House?
With the text of the Senate border bill finally released but the package facing long odds at ever becoming law, hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller discuss how Congress ended up in this position and how lawmakers might move forward on immigration, Ukraine, Israel, taxes, and more. Then, they are joined by Dan Conston, President of the Congressional Leadership Fund, to talk about the upcoming NY special election and the entire 2024 cycle, including the challenges of recruiting candidates, the adjustment to Speaker Johnson, and the impact of immigration and abortion as campaign issues.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Dan Conston
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
CNN: Bipartisan border deal faces grim odds in the Senate ahead of key vote
The Hill: Senate Democrats likely to bury Mayorkas impeachment
Axios: House GOP plans new Israel package in blow to Senate talks
While Congress moves closer to an appropriations package, the prospect of an immigration deal is becoming more remote. Hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller are joined by NBC News’ Sahil Kapur to break down the dynamics at play between the House, the Senate and the White House. They examine the relationship between Speaker Johnson and Minority Leader McConnell, debate the influence of President Biden and former President Trump, and wonder whether anything could pass the House.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Sahil Kapur
Producer: Benji Englander
Articles Discussed:
Congressional negotiators strike deal to move appropriations process forward
Patrick McHenry’s comments on Speaker Johnson
President Biden embraces border negotiations while Speaker Johnson throws cold water on a deal
Sahil Kapur’s story on tax bill
The laddered CR is back as lawmakers released another two-tiered stopgap spending bill to again avert a government shutdown. Hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller are joined by Jen Sholtes, who covers budget and appropriations for POLITICO, to talk about the appropriations process, the challenges facing House Speaker Mike Johnson and the potential for a year-long CR if Congress is unable to pass appropriations bills. They also talk about Johnson’s leadership style and the immigration deal that feels destined to fail.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Jen Sholtes
Producer: Benji Englander
CONTROL is a podcast hosted by Seven Letter’s Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller, two veterans of Capitol Hill who now serve as communications strategists to Fortune 500 companies, non-profits and advocacy coalitions. Drawing on their experience in GOP congressional politics, the podcast seeks to look around the corner at the policy priorities and political dynamics that will define Congress.
The podcast series talks to experts who know the institution and helps explain the challenges and opportunities facing a divided Congress. Guests include subject-matter experts, journalists, former lawmakers, and political operatives, all with a keen insight into what is next for Washington. With Season 2 of CONTROL, you can expect a new episode every Tuesday when Congress is in session.
12 days into the start of the Johnson Speakership – and with 12 days to go until a government shutdown – hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller offer their assessments of Speaker Johnson’s early moves, especially around the Israel aid package. They debate what’s next for the supplemental request and the overall appropriations process and wonder what the future holds for George Santos.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Producer: Benji Englander
As House Republicans gather (again) to choose a Speaker nominee, hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller discuss where things went wrong for Jim Jordan, run through the nine Speaker candidates, and explain why whoever emerges victorious will have a steep learning curve. Plus, Kevin McCarthy’s future and the outlook for President Biden’s supplemental budget request for Israel and Ukraine.
Brendan’s New York Times op-ed: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/10/18/opinion/patrick-mchenry-interim-speaker-powers.html
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Producer: Benji Englander
Hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller are suffering from a case of déjà vu as the GOP nominee for Speaker struggles to find the necessary votes. They debate the big questions facing the House Republican Conference: Can Steve Scalise secure enough support? What has Kevin McCarthy been up to? Does Patrick McHenry have the authority to pass aid for Israel? And why are they taking away Members’ cell phones before meetings?
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Producer: Benji Englander
The Speakership is vacant, a shutdown looms (again), and no one has control in the House of Representatives. After a whirlwind week in the House, hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller try to make sense of what just happened and where things go from here. They discuss Kevin McCarthy’s downfall, the race to replace him, the power available to Patrick McHenry, the future of Ukraine funding, and more.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Producer: Benji Englander
With the debt limit raised but members of the Freedom Caucus in revolt, hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller are joined by Will Dunham – a former top aide to Speaker McCarthy – to try to figure out where the House Republican Conference goes from here. Can appropriations be done through regular order? How can leadership keep members in line? And is a government shutdown inevitable?
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Will Dunham
Producer: Benji Englander
We have a debt limit deal – but how many votes will it get? To answer that question, hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller are joined by Matt Bravo, former Director of Floor Operations for then-House Majority Whip Steve Scalise. The trio discuss the vote whipping process, the key lawmakers to watch and the importance of vibes before making some predictions on the final tally.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Matt Bravo
Producer: Benji Englander
As the U.S. barrels toward a default, hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller analyze the latest in negotiations between Congress and the White House. They game out what a final deal may look like but have different levels of optimism it will get done before the deadline. Then, they are joined by Ben Harris, the former Assistant Secretary for Economic Policy and a counselor to the Secretary of the Treasury, to get the administration’s perspective on the debt ceiling debate.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Ben Harris
Producer: Benji Englander
As the possible nightmare scenario draws closer, hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller are joined by NBC News’ Ali Vitali to search for optimism in the debt ceiling negotiations. They discuss Speaker McCarthy’s success thus far and what pitfalls may lie ahead, Senate Democrats revolting against President Biden and whether work requirements are truly a “red line.” Plus, Brendan and Annlayse make some predictions.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Gust: Ali Vitali
Producer: Benji Englander
With the “X” date and a possible default fast approaching, hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller return to break down the debt ceiling drama. They recap the recent White House meeting and discuss Speaker McCarthy’s impressive ability to hold his conference together along with Democrats misplaced hopes for a discharge petition. Then, CNN’s Phil Mattingly joins the show to explain the Biden administration’s strategy. Plus, immigration reform stalls and George Santos gets indicted.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Phil Mattingly
Producer: Benji Englander
The debt ceiling has been breached and the debate on Capitol Hill is just starting to unfold. Hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller are joined by PwC’s Rohit Kumar – a veteran of the 2011 debt ceiling standoff where he served as Deputy Chief of Staff to Leader Mitch McConnell. The trio discuss the history of debt ceiling fights, explore the limits of proposed workarounds, and ponder the best way to avoid a catastrophic outcome.
This is the final episode in this limited-run series, so be sure to follow @BrendanBuck and @AnnalyseKB on Twitter for the latest insights. Thank you for listening.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Producer: Benji Englander
Guest: Rohit Kumar
With Kevin McCarthy finally securing the gavel, hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller discuss the concessions he made and dissect the new rules package. Then, they throw some cold water on the House GOP’s spending plans and explain why a discharge petition is not a silver bullet to the impending debt ceiling standoff.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Producer: Benji Englander
Hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller break down a wild start to the 118th Congress and game out what might happen next. They debate if Kevin McCarthy can get over the finish line, the impact of the CLF-CFG agreement and what this all means for the next two years of legislating. Buckle up!
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Producer: Benji Englander
Are we entering uncharted territory? Hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller offer a primer on what might happen with the Speaker vote on January 3rd. They talk through the parliamentary procedure and what could happen if Kevin McCarthy fails to secure a majority on the first ballot. Plus, a discussion on relations between the House and Senate and how leadership will deal with controversial Rep.-elect George Santos.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Producer: Benji Englander
On a jam-packed episode of CONTROL, hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller break down a big breakthrough to fund the government and the roadblocks that remain on Kevin McCarthy’s path to the speakership. Then, they are joined by Mark Epley, former general counsel to Speaker Ryan and former Staff Director of the Oversight Subcommittee on Ways and Means, to talk all things oversight: How will the GOP manage everything on their list? How do they avoid overreaching? And how will the Biden administration respond?
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Mark Epley
Producer: Benji Englander
Heather Caygle of Punchbowl News joins the show to help hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller get smart on the new House Democratic leadership, including their leadership styles, power bases and relationship with soon-to-be former Speaker Pelosi. Then, Annalyse talks to Matt George, Seven Letter’s Head of Research, about some key findings from our Seven Letter voter priorities poll. Plus, debating if Congress and the President will get everything they want on their lame-duck holiday wish list.
Seven Letter Insight’s Post-Election Poll Gives Glimpse Into 2024 GOP Primary
Seven Letter Insight’s Post-Election Poll of 2022 Midterm Voters Explores Trust in Institutions and Industries
Seven Letter Insight’s Post-Election Poll of 2022 Midterm Voters Explores Changing Trust in Elections
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guests: Heather Caygle and Matt George
Producer: Benji Englander
On a new episode of CONTROL, hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller break down the busy lame duck session of Congress: Will an omnibus spending package get done – and when? Will the defense authorization fall victim to the ”war on woke”? And how does all this affect Kevin McCarthy’s quest for 218 votes? Then, former Senator Cory Gardner (R-CO) joins the show to discuss the latest developments in China and Ukraine, along with the differences between the new GOP majority and his class of 2010.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Former Senator Cory Gardner (R-CO)
Producer: Benji Englander
On this episode of CONTROL, hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller are joined by Alyssa Farah Griffin – former Trump White House Communications Director and Freedom Caucus Spokesperson – to discuss the evolution of the House Freedom Caucus and what pressure the group may exert on Kevin McCarthy. Plus, a game of buy or sell on common DC narratives.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Alyssa Farah Griffin
Producer: Benji Englander
Punchbowl News’ Jake Sherman joins hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller to try make sense of the unexpected midterm election results and answer some big questions: Does Kevin McCarthy still have the votes to be the next Speaker? Will Mitch McConnell face real pressure to continue as Senate Leader? Is this the end of Nancy Pelosi’s career? And what’s in store for the lame duck session of Congress beginning soon?
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Jake Sherman
Producer: Benji Englander
On the first episode of CONTROL, hosts Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller welcome former House Speaker Paul Ryan and discuss what to expect from a possible GOP majority in the House of Representatives. They talk about the outlook for Kevin McCarthy as Speaker, balancing campaign promises with legislative reality, and areas of potential policy action and oversight. Speaker Ryan shares his insights into how Republicans will wield their newfound power.
Hosts: Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller
Guest: Paul Ryan
Producer: Benji Englander
“Control” is a podcast hosted by Seven Letter’s Brendan Buck and Annalyse Keller, two veterans of Capitol Hill who now serve as communications strategists to Fortune 500 companies, non-profits and advocacy coalitions. Drawing on their experience in GOP congressional politics, the podcast seeks to look around the corner at the policy priorities and political dynamics that will define Congress following the 2022 midterm elections.