Speaker Mike Johnson's position is facing increasing scrutiny after a controversial handling of the government funding bill last week, which has left his future as Speaker uncertain. Several House Republicans, speaking anonymously, expressed frustration with Johnson’s leadership, saying his mishandling of the continuing resolution (CR) has severely shaken the confidence of his colleagues.
Senate Democrats in Washington are advocating for new taxes to address a looming $16 billion budget shortfall, as revealed in a leaked email sent by Sen. Noel Frame (D-Seattle). The email, sent shortly after Governor Jay Inslee’s announcement of the shortfall, outlines additional taxes beyond those proposed by Inslee, which include a new wealth tax, a temporary 20% business surcharge, and an increase in business and occupation (B&O) tax rates.
This week’s Liberal Media Scream focuses on CBS’s Margaret Brennan criticizing Elon Musk for his influence on President-elect Donald Trump’s budget talks, which she described as "confusing." Brennan, the host of Face the Nation, took offense at Musk's role in the political discourse, labeling him an "unelected" figure despite her own similar position as a media personality with significant influence.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), accusing the organization of misleading college sports fans by allowing transgender women to compete in events designated for women. Paxton argues that this practice violates the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act by deceiving fans who expect to see competitions involving athletes assigned female at birth.
Reports indicate that President Donald Trump is growing increasingly frustrated with House Speaker Mike Johnson following last week’s government funding debacle, leaving the future of their relationship uncertain. According to Politico's Rachael Bade, several of Trump’s insiders expressed anger over Johnson’s failure to deliver the debt ceiling hike Trump sought, making it more difficult for Republicans to pass the President’s agenda next year.
A recent survey by Economist/YouGov shows that a plurality of Americans view President Joe Biden's use of his presidential pardon powers as “inappropriate.” According to the survey, 46 percent of respondents believe Biden's pardons and commutations have been inappropriate, compared to 28 percent who find them appropriate. Around 26 percent of those surveyed remain undecided.
Nora Vargas, Chair of the San Diego County Board of Supervisors, made a surprising announcement on Friday, stating she would not serve a second term due to concerns for her "personal safety and security." Despite winning re-election in November with 62.5% of the vote, Vargas announced via email:
MSNBC, a corporate news outlet known for its left-leaning commentary, is reportedly offering pay cuts to anchors Joy Reid and Stephanie Ruhle as part of cost-cutting measures amidst declining viewership and financial strain.
