Washington Today

Pres. Trump has tense exchange with Sen. Cassidy (R-LA) over Iran War; Pres. Trump cancels housing bill signing until Senate passes voter ID bill

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 22:40:00 -0000

President Donald Trump meets with Senate Republicans and news reports say there were some tense exchanges over the war with Iran. On the way out, he said it was a 'good meeting' and the party is 'unified', but he is not happy with every Republican Senator. He said, 'I don’t like a few people, but I think you know who they are'; President postpones signing a bipartisan housing bill into law, he says until the Senate passes the SAVE America Act, which would require proof of U.S. citizenship to register to vote; Three left-leaning Congressional candidates endorsed by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani (D) win Democratic primaries Tuesday, two of them defeating Democratic incumbents; Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth meets with House Republicans about the proposed increase in defense spending; Today is the four year anniversary of the Supreme Court's Dobbs decision overturning the Constitutional right to abortion; Bipartisan Congressional leadership holds a ceremony to dedicate a time capsule to honor America's 250th anniversary, scheduled to be opened when America turns 500, in 2276.

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Senate joins House in passing Iran War Power Act resolution to require Pres. withdraw U.S. military; Pres. Trump visits Pennsylvania to talk about economy

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 22:28:00 -0000

Senate passes an Iran War Powers Act resolution to require the President to withdraw U.S. military forces. House also passed it, but it is symbolic. It will not go to the president desk for a signature or veto, and therefore has no force of law; President Trump insists Iran will allow international nuclear inspectors to enter their country, despite what they are saying now, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio begins a tour of Gulf states to shore up support for the Memorandum of Understanding with Iran that has halted the war; Senators are asked today about President Trump's planned visit to Capitol Hill Wednesday to meet with Senate Republicans to talk about the Iran War and the SAVE America Act to require proof of U.S. citizenship to vote; President Donald Trump tours a Mack Truck facility in a competitive Congressional district in Pennsylvania and gives a speech on his economic agenda, highlighting his tariffs, saying, 'American Roads will be filled with American Trucks'; Voters in New York, South Carolina, Maryland and Utah are casting ballots in primary elections. NYC's Democratic Mayor Zohran Mamdani has endorsed candidates in line with his Democratic Socialist economic vision, in some cases opposing incumbent Democrats; U.S. House is expected to pass a bipartisan affordable housing bill the Senate passed Monday; Senate Democrats mark the fourth anniversary of the Supreme Court's Dobbs decision overturning the Constitutional right to abortion.

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VP Vance says Iran will allow nuclear inspectors; Senate prepares to pass housing bill

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 22:37:00 -0000

Vice President Vance says peace talks with Iran set "a good foundation;" The Senate prepares to pass a bipartisan affordable housing bill; and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer resigns.

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Weekend Edition: U.S. Economic Outlook, Education & Use of A.I., and Family Research Council

Sat, 20 Jun 2026 08:00:00 -0000

In this weekend's episode, three segments from this past week's Washington Journal.

First: A discussion with Mike Konczal of the Economic Security Project and Richard Stern of Advancing American Freedom, discuss the U.S. economic outlook and the Iran War's impact on the economy.

Then: American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten discusses challenges facing education & the use of artificial intelligence in the classroom.

Finally: Family Research Council President Tony Perkins discusses the Southern Poverty Law Center labeling his organization a hate group and other news of the day.

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Juneteenth federal holiday; Pres. Trump unveils new Air Force One jet; U.S.-Iran talks in Geneva postponed

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 22:30:00 -0000

On this Juneteenth National Independence Day federal holiday, we hear from two African-American U.S. Senators, Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Tim Scott (R-SC); President Donald Trump unveils the Boeing 747-8 that was a gift from Qatar and will serve as the new Air Force One. It is painted the president's preferred red, white & blue; Israel and Hezbollah agree to a ceasefire in Lebanon after continued military fighting there led to the scheduled U.S.-Iran talks in Switzerland on such issues as Iran nuclear program to be postponed; Maryland's 6th Congressional District Democrat primary matchup between incumbent April McClain Delaney and challenger David Trone could end up being the most expensive U.S. House primary ever. We will talk about it with HuffPost Senior Reporter Arthur Delaney (28) ; Great Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer is looking at an impending challenge to his leadership from former Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, who just won a special election to a seat in Parliament, specifically so he can launch a bid to be Prime Minister. We will talk about that with C-SPAN's Westminster Correspondent Peter Knowles (41); Sen. James Lankford (R-OK) speaks on the Senate floor about Father's Day.

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Barack & Michelle Obama dedicate Obama Presidential Center in Chicago; Defense Secretary Hegseth announces review of U.S. forces in Europe

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 22:41:00 -0000

Former President Barack Obama at the opening of his presidential center in Chicago calls on Americans to look to the future, saying, 'We want to find a way to look toward each other again, not further away' and 'I hope this center will serve as an affirmation of just how special, how precious, our democracy truly is'; Vice President JD Vance defends the memorandum of understanding with Iran, saying it is 'bearing fruit' as oil starts moving through the Strait of Hormuz and oil prices drop. And he says the deal is a “win-win” for the U.S. If Iran changes its behavior, it's a transformative relationship, and if not, their military and their nuclear program is still destroyed; Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announces at a NATO defense ministerial a six-month review of U.S. military forces and bases in Europe.. saying 'an era of freeriding' is over; Senate Judiciary Committee approves a bill requiring the Supreme Court to allow cameras to cover oral arguments; New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani (D) presents the NBA Champion New York Knicks with the keys to the city after a massive ticker tape parade down Broadway.

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Pres. Trump says he will bomb Iran again if it violates peace deal; DNI Dir. nominee confirmation hearing canceled; Fed leaves interest rates unchanged

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 23:02:00 -0000

President Donald Trump in a concluding news conference at the G7 Summit in France says if Iran does not follow the agreement it will sign with the U.S. on Friday, the U.S. will resume bombing Iran; Senate confirmation hearing for Director of National Intelligence nominee Jay Clayton is postponed after President Trump prevents the nominee from testifying. Confirmation of a new DNI was expected to clear the way for Senate Democrats to support a reauthorization of a foreign surveillance tool as the Democrats opposed the president's Acting DNI Bill Pulte. Now the president says he will support the foreign spying power only if a bill to require ID to register to vote is attached, and Bill Pulte will stay as Acting DNI; Federal Reserve holds interest rates steady in the first meeting under new Chair Kevin Warsh, and announces new task forces, including on data sources the Fed considers in its decisions and how the Fed communicates with the public. We will hear from the Chair and talk with Wall Street Journal economics reporter Matt Grossman (20); Senate committee holds a confirmation hearing for nominees to lead the Transportation Security Administration and Federal Emergency Management Agency and to be Deputy Director of the White House Office of Management and Budget; in Campaign 2026, President Trump gets a split decision in Georgia. The candidate he endorsed for U.S. Senator wins, and the one he endorsed for governor loses.

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Pres. Trump says he'll send U.S.-Iran deal to Congress for review; Senate defeats Iran War Powers Act res.; Senate Budget Cmte holds hearing for OMB Dep Dir nominee

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 22:31:00 -0000

President Donald Trump at the G7 summit in France praises the U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding (MOU) as a document that normalizes relations between the U.S. and Iran after months of warfare, indicates the text could be made public before the formal signing in Switzerland on Friday, and says he could send it to Congress for review; Senate votes for a 9th time on an Iran War Powers resolution offered by Democrats to force the president to withdraw U.S. forces. It fails 47-48; President Trump meets with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and downplays the U.S. role in Ukraine's war with Russia, saying the U.S. has 'nothing to do' with a war that is 'thousands of miles away' and 'It has no impact on us, other than we sell weapons'; Vice President JD Vance is asked about the FBI saying it stopped a terror attack on the UFC fight event on the White House South Lawn; Federal prosecutors in Minnesota charge 15 people with conspiracy to impede or injure federal officers and related crimes that 'violently oppose immigration law enforcement'; Senate Budget Committee holds a hearing for the nominee for Deputy Director of the White House Budget Office, Hal Duncan; former Vice President Kamala Harris talks about the Trump Administration's alleged weaponization of the Justice Department; Gov. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA) announces a deal to sell marijuana legally in the commonwealth.

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Trump Claims Iran Agreement Is Close; Senate Eyes FISA Extension

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 22:00:00 -0000

President Trump says the United States and Iran are close to finalizing an agreement to end the war, but major disagreements remain. Iran is demanding an Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says that won't happen. We hear from both leaders on the latest developments.

Plus, the Senate returns to Washington with a possible extension of FISA surveillance authorities and the nomination of Jay Clayton as Director of National Intelligence on the agenda. Senate leaders weigh in on what's ahead this week on Capitol Hill.

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Weekend Edition: Inflation at Three-Year High, Conditions at Immigration & Customs Enforcement Detention Centers, and Changes to the Federal Workforce

Sat, 13 Jun 2026 08:00:00 -0000

In this weekend's episode, three segments from this past week's Washington Journal.

First: A discussion with Manhattan Institute's Allison Schrager, about the new inflation numbers hitting a three-year high.

Then: ProPublica's Perla Trevizo discusses the conditions at Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention centers across the U.S.

Finally: Max Stier of the Partnership for Public Service discusses the Trump administration's changes to the federal workforce.

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Elon Musk is 1st trillionaire after SpaceX IPO; reports of progress in U.S.-Iran peace talks; DNI Gabbard says U.S. funded dangerous biolab research

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 22:51:00 -0000

SpaceX begins trading above its listing price following a record-setting IPO, making founder Elon Musk the world's first-ever trillionaire; Victims of the deadly Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando, Florida are remembered on this 10th anniversary; reports of progress in talks to end the war between the U.S. & Iran. Pakistan's Prime Minister says “final, agreed upon text of the peace deal has been reached” and Iranian Foreign Minister an agreement has “never been closer”; Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) Sect. 702 spying power is almost certain to expire tonight, after Congress left Washington without renewing it; Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard releases what she says is evidence of U.S. government funding for more than 120 biolabs in over 30 countries where research on dangerous pathogens took place and that previous administrations covered it up; President Donald Trump threatens to revoke Washington, DC home rule if mayoral candidate Janeese Lewis George, a self-described democratic socialist, wins; Hillary Clinton & Pete Buttigieg speak about the future of the Democratic party at the Rainbow PUSH Coalition conference in Chicago; FBI Director Kash Patel on security for the FIFA World Cup soccer tournament.

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FISA Sect. 702 spying power set to expire after House defeats extension; Pres. Trump calls of Iran bombing, says deal to end war being finalized

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 22:42:00 -0000

House votes down an extension of the foreign spying power called FISA Sect. 702 a day before it is set to expire, with many Democrats upset at President Trump naming FHFA Director Bill Pulte as Acting Director of National Intelligence; after the vote, President Trump nominates Jay Clayton, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York and former chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission, to be the next permanent DNI; Just hours after President Trump says the U.S. would strike Iran 'very hard tonight,' he calls off the bombing, claiming a breakthrough in negotiations with Iran; Secretary of State Marco Rubio signs a sports diplomacy partnership with UFC CEO Dana White; Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche announces indictments against three people in Ohio for conspiring to smuggle unaccompanied minors across the U.S. border; Rep. Robert Garcia (D-CA), Oversight Committee ranking member, accuses Vice President JD Vance of leading a 'cover-up' of the Jeffrey Epstein files after news reports about the Vice President's role in White House Situation Room meetings; First Lady Melania Trump promotes savings accounts for children in the foster care system; New York politicians talk about the NBA Knicks being one game closer to a championship and the World Cup soccer tournament getting underway.

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Trump Threatens New Iran Strikes, Bill Gates Testifies on Epstein Ties, Inflation Hits 4.2%

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 22:09:00 -0000

President Trump says the U.S. will resume attacks on Iran amid stalled negotiations, inflation reaches a three-year high, Bill Gates appears before the House Oversight Committee to answer questions about Jeffrey Epstein, and we preview tonight's Congressional Baseball Game.

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House passes $70B ICE/CPB funding on party-line vote; Pres. Trump says U.S. 'must' respond to U.S. Army helicopter downed by Iran; NASA reveals Artemis III crew

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 23:02:00 -0000

House joins the Senate in passing $70 billion, budget reconciliation, multiyear funding bill for Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and Customs & Border Protection, ending a four month showdown with Democrats over whether federal immigration enforcement should be reformed; President Trump says the U.S. 'must' respond to an attack from Iran on a U.S. army helicopter that was patrolling over the Strait of Hormuz. He said the two pilots were safe and unharmed; No apparent path forward yet on renewing the foreign spying power known as FISA Sect. 702 before it expires at the end of the week. President Trump is reportingly not willing to pull back his appointment of Bill Pulte as Director of National Intelligence, one of the obstacles; Interim President of the South Poverty Law Center testifies before a House committee on accusations the civil rights group secretly paid informants inside extremist groups it was supposedly trying to bring down; House Oversight Committee interviews Lesley Groff, longtime assistant to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein; Congressional leaders of both parties asked about President Trump accusing California's elections of being rigged; NASA reveals the Artemis III crew; First Lady Melania Trump presents the Presidential AI Challenge Awards.

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GOP budget reconciliation bill to fund ICE & CPB moves to House; Pres. Trump attends NBA Finals game at MSG

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 00:27:00 -0000

Republicans’ budget reconciliation package is now in the House’s hands, and they could approve the immigration bill this week; Another contentious issue boils in the Senate, extending the government's overseas warrantless spy powers authority known as FISA. That power expires on Friday, but Congress has repeatedly punted an extension for the past two months. And throwing a wrench into this time, President Trump's decision to install Bill Pulte as director of national intelligence; President Trump demands that Israel and Iran stop 'shooting' after a weekend of strikes between the two countries. And while both sides stopped the attacks, neither side says they're backing down from the conflict; Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner (D) talks about the misconduct allegations made against him last week; Three New York Knicks fans react to President Trump attending tonight's NBA Finals Game 3 at Madison Square Garden.

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Weekend Edition: Immigration Enforcement, Anti-Weaponization Fund, and PBS Frontline Documentary on Trump's "War Cabinet"

Sat, 06 Jun 2026 08:00:00 -0000

In this weekend's episode, three segments from this past week's Washington Journal.

First: A discussion about the Trump Administration's immigration enforcement and deportation policies with Lora Ries of the Heritage Foundation.

Then: Donald Sherman of Citizens for Responsibility & Ethics in Washington discusses his organization's efforts to block the Trump Administration's "anti-weaponization fund."

Finally: PBS FRONTLINE Producer and writer Mike Wiser discusses his new documentary on President Trump's "War Cabinet"

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Senate Vote-a-Rama Begins on GOP Immigration Funding Bill as Trump Announces Key Nomination

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 22:04:00 -0000

The Senate vote-a-rama is underway as Republicans push toward passage of a 70-billion-dollar budget reconciliation package to fund the Trump administration's immigration enforcement priorities.

The process began this morning with an amendment from Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer that would have sent the bill back to committee and prohibited funding for the President's proposed 1.8-billion-dollar "anti-weaponization fund."

That vote stretched nearly four hours before failing, 50 to 49.

Senators then turned to an amendment from North Carolina Republican Thom Tillis that would have redirected the fund's money to the Justice Department's anti-fraud efforts. That proposal was also rejected.

At the White House, President Trump announced he intends to nominate Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche to serve permanently in the role.

The president also unveiled 700 million dollars in funding for coal plants and energy infrastructure projects across 11 states.

And President Trump weighed in on the war with Iran and his appointment of Bill Pulte as Acting Director of National Intelligence.

We'll have the latest from Capitol Hill and the White House coming up.

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Senate Begins Debate on GOP Reconciliation Bill Amid High-Profile Hearings

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 22:07:00 -0000

On Capitol Hill, Republicans are finally moving their reconciliation package forward.

The Senate voted this afternoon to begin debate on the measure, which no longer includes funding for President Trump's proposed White House ballroom.

The bill also comes after Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche confirmed that the administration's proposed $1.8 billion IRS "Anti-Weaponization Fund" has been dropped from the package.

Democrats, however, are vowing a fight as Republicans push to advance the legislation using the reconciliation process. We'll have the latest on where the bill stands coming up.

It was also a busy day of hearings on Capitol Hill.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio faced questions from lawmakers on Iran and U.S. foreign policy before the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent defended the administration's settlement with the IRS during a Senate Finance Committee hearing.

And Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin told lawmakers he is reviewing contracts signed during the tenure of former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.

Plus, Campaign 2026 enters a new phase following primary elections in seven states. We'll look at the results and hear what candidates had to say in several closely watched races, including contests in California and Iowa.

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Bill Pulte Faces Capitol Hill Scrutiny, Rubio Testifies on Iran & C-SPAN2 Marks 40 Years of Senate Coverage

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 21:49:00 -0000

President Trump's decision to name Bill Pulte as acting Director of National Intelligence draws mixed reactions on Capitol Hill, with Democrats sharply criticizing the move and some Republicans expressing caution. We hear from lawmakers weighing in on the appointment.

Also, Secretary of State Marco Rubio testifies before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and end the conflict with Iran, while acting Attorney General Todd Blanche faces questions on Capitol Hill about the administration's proposed $1.8 billion IRS compensation fund.

Plus, primary voters head to the polls in six states, including closely watched races in California and Iowa.

And C-SPAN marks a milestone: 40 years of live Senate coverage on C-SPAN2. We look back at the launch of Senate television and hear what lawmakers are saying about four decades of cameras in the chamber.

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IRS "Weaponization" Fund Scrapped? Senate Returns, Iran Talks in Question & Primary Elections Ahead

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 22:23:00 -0000

The Trump administration is reportedly abandoning its controversial $1.8 billion IRS "weaponization" fund after bipartisan criticism and concerns raised by federal judges. We hear reaction from Capitol Hill and what the decision could mean for ongoing immigration funding negotiations.

Also, Iran says it has suspended talks with the United States following Israeli actions in Lebanon, while President Trump insists negotiations are continuing at a "rapid pace."

Plus, the Senate returns to Washington facing a growing legislative backlog, and voters in six states prepare to head to the polls for key primary elections. We hear from Senate leaders and candidates on the campaign trail.

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Weekend Edition: Texas GOP Senate Primary, Government Fraud, and Americans View of the Iran War

Sat, 30 May 2026 08:30:00 -0000

In this weekend's episode, three segments from this past week's Washington Journal.

First: A discussion with Cook Political Report's Jessica Taylor on what the brutal Texas GOP Senate primary tells us about President Trump's grip on the Republican party – and the bigger fight over the Senate this fall.

Then: OJ Oleka of the State Financial Officers Foundation discusses his group's efforts across the country to expose government fraud.

Finally: Institute for Global Affairs Director Jonathan Guyer discusses new polling on American views of the Iran war.

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Pres. Trump holds Situation Room meeting on possible deal to end Iran War; Former Atty. Gen. Bondi is interviewed by House Oversight Committee on Epstein files

Fri, 29 May 2026 22:45:00 -0000

President Donald Trump posts a list of requirements for any deal to end the war with Iran peacefully, then says he is meeting in the White House Situation Room to make a final determination. Some media reports say he did not reach a decision; Russian military drone hits an apartment building in Romania. U.S., NATO & the European Union condemn it as a 'reckless act' by Russia; Week ends as it began outside the Delaney Hall Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility in Newark, New Jersey, with protesters clashing with federal agents; former Attorney General Pam sits for a closed door interview with the House Oversight Committee on the process for releasing the files of the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Democrats on the committee say she pinned the blame for any mistakes on now Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. She says that is not true; Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent gives a speech at the Reagan National Economic Forum in California titled “While America Slept”, arguing that U.S. policymaking has prioritized efficiency over resilience; Disney-owned ABC criticizes the Federal Communications Commission as it formally applies to renew early licenses for its eight broadcast TV stations, as the FCC demanded. One station writing, "This effort to suppress speech under the guise of bureaucratic process must not prevail"; Rep. Frederica Wilson (D-FL) says she will not run for reelection; Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) promotes a bipartisan bill he introduced this week to overhaul the business of college sports.

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Reports of possible U.S.-Iran deal to extend ceasefire, reopen Strait, launch nuclear talks; Treasury Dept exploring $250 bill with Pres. Trump's portrait

Thu, 28 May 2026 22:53:00 -0000

There are reports of a possible agreement between the U.S. and Iran to extend the ceasefire and start negotiations over Iran's nuclear program, while a new inflation report shows the increase in oil prices from the Iran war has led to the highest inflation level in three years. We will hear from Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent; He is also asked about an effort to put President Donald Trump's portrait on a new $250 bill, and the $1.776 billion anti-weaponization fund that has already postponed legislation in the Senate because of concerns from some Republicans; Vice President JD Vance, giving the commencement address at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado, tells the cadets is it okay to use artificial intelligence in warfare, but 'never submit to it' and 'if the warfare of the future is to live up to the moral values of our ancestors, decisions over life and death must be made by humans and not machines'; Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, visiting New York City, calls for increasing the economic and diplomatic distance between his country and the U.S., what he calls 'strategic autonomy', which, he says, will make both countries stronger; Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D-MMI) says she will not run for the Democratic nomination for President in 2028; former Sen. Mitt Romney (R-UT) speaks to graduates of his alma mater, Harvard Business School; New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani (D) is asked whether he will sit with President Trump if the President attends an NBA Finals game in Madison Square Garden.

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Pres. Trump holds Cabinet meeting, talks about Texas primary results, Iran war negotiations, anti-ICE protests; retiring Sen. Durbin honored by Illinois legislature

Wed, 27 May 2026 22:42:00 -0000

President Donald Trump holds a Cabinet meeting at the White House, talking about Tuesday's election primary results, including in Texas, where his preferred Republican nominee for U.S. Senator, Ken Paxton, defeated incumbent John Cornyn. President also talks about talks to end Iran war, saying Iran was "negotiating on fumes" and "maybe we have to go back and finish it, maybe we don't"; and the President is asked about immigration, after protesters and federal agents having been clashing outside an Immigration & Customs Enforcement detention facility in Newark, New Jersey; American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten calls for guardrails on advanced technology in classrooms, such as screen time limits and a ban on artificial intelligence in elementary schools; Sen. Dick Durbin (D-IL) at a retirement tribute in the Illinois state legislature in Springfield his work to ban smoking on airplanes; former Vice President Mike Pence is asked at a policy conference in Michigan if he ever picks up the phone and calls President Trump; Iowa Democrats pitch the Democratic National Committee that their state deserves to once again be among the first to hold a Democratic presidential primary in 2028.

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Pres. Trump says physical went 'perfectly'; SC Senate GOP votes down GOP-leaning Cong. district map; Fed. workers to sign NDA's under proposed rule to prevent leaks

Tue, 26 May 2026 23:03:00 -0000

President Donald Trump has a routine physical fitness examination, posting 'Everything checked out PERFECTLY'; Republican South Carolina state senators help defeat a new Congressional district lines map intended to eliminate the state's only Black majority district and make the entire delegation Republican; Election day in Texas, with the closely watch Senate Republican primary runoff where President Trump endorsed state Attorney General Ken Paxton against incumbent John Cornyn; Secretary of State Marco Rubio predicts it will take 'a couple of days' to finalize any agreement with Iran to end the war, while Iran denounces new U.S. military strikes in Iran, which the U.S. calls defensive, as a sign of 'bad faith and unreliability'; Russia threatens more, intense attacks on Ukraine's capital Kyiv and warns foreign nationals, including Americans, to leave for their safety; Trump Administration has proposed all federal workers be required to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) prohibiting them from sharing 'confidential government information', in an effort to stem leaks. We will talk about it with Scott Nover, Washington Post media reporter (35); Sen. Andy Kim (D-NJ) is pepper sprayed while at a protest outside an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in Newark, New Jersey; Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney tells supporters of a referendum in Alberta to make the province a separate country that it is a 'dangerous bluff' and they might regret it if actually passes; New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani (D) is giddy that his hometown Knicks are back in an NBA Finals for the first time since 1999.

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Weekend Edition: David Hogg on Young Voters, Ken Cuccinelli on Redistricting Battles, and Trump RX

Sat, 23 May 2026 08:30:00 -0000

In this weekend's episode, three segments from this past week's Washington Journal.

First: A conversation with political activist David Hogg – founder of the group Leaders We Deserve -- about young voters and future of the Democratic Party

Then: We chat with former Virginia Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli - national chair of the Election Transparency Initiative – on the redistricting battles sweeping the nation and how they might impact the midterm elections.

Finally: Politico Heath Care Reporter David Lim talks about "Trump Rx" and recent efforts by the Trump Administration to lower the cost of prescription drugs.

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DNI Gabbard resigns, Fed Chair Warsh is sworn in; Sec. Rubio says there's been 'slight progress' in talks with Iran to end the war

Fri, 22 May 2026 22:38:00 -0000

Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard resigns, she says to support her husband, who has been diagnosed with an extremely rare form of bone cancer; Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh is sworn-in at the White House. President Donald Trump tells him he wants him to be 'totally independent' when making decisions, such as on interest rates. Warsh says he will lead a 'reform-oriented Federal Reserve'; Secretary of State Marco Rubio at a NATO foreign ministers meeting in Sweden says there has been 'slight progress' in the talks with Iran to end the war; World Health Organization raises the risk of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo from 'high' to 'very high', but the global risk remains at 'low'; As millions set off on Memorial Day holiday weekend travel, Transportation Security Administration is looking at using more private contractors for airport security screening; In this peak time for college and university graduations, a sampling of commencement speeches C-SPAN has brought in: Gen. Dan Caine, Joint Chiefs of Staff chair, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), Turning Point USA CEO Erika Kirk, Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL), NBC journalist Lester Holt, Olympic gold medal winning skier Lindsey Vonn and rapper & music producer will.i.am; a tribute to CBS News Radio, going off the air after nearly 100 years.

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Senate GOP puts off debate & votes on $70 billion immigration agencies package over concerns about Pres. Trump's $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponization fund'

Thu, 21 May 2026 23:05:00 -0000

Senate Republicans cancel floor debate and votes on a $70 billion immigration agencies package known as the Budget Reconciliation bill because of concerns among Republicans about who would qualify to receive compensation under President Trump's $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund; President announces a rollback of environmental regulations on greenhouse gas releasing refrigerants, he says, to lower grocery costs by reducing costs on supermarkets & transportation companies; Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) is asked about President Trump endorsing his primary opponent Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton (R); Democratic National Committee releasing a report on why the party lost the 2024 presidential election, along with a disclaimer that the DNC 'cannot independently verify the claims presented.' We will talk about it with Dan Merica, co-anchor of the Washington Post Early Brief (16); House Republican leaders delay a vote on an Iran War Powers Act resolution offered by Democrats to force the President to end the war; House defeats a National Women's History Museum bill. Many Democrats opposed it because the bill specifically excludes transgender women from being represented in the exhibits; Justice Department announces Medicaid fraud indictments in Minnesota; actor Noah Wyle rallies on Capitol Hill on behalf of health care workers; National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration are predicting a below-normal Atlantic hurricane season.

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Reaction to Rep. Massie (R-KY) losing primary to Pres. Trump-backed opponent; Justice Dept. indicts fmr. Cuban Pres. Raúl Castro; fmr. Rep. Frank (D-MA) dies

Wed, 20 May 2026 22:51:00 -0000

What did the results of Tuesday's Republican primaries, especially the defeat of targeted Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY), say about the power of President Donald Trump's endorsement? We hear from the President, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and an ally of Massie, Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA); Justice Department indicts 94-year-old Raúl Castro, former Cuban president and defense minister, on murder and conspiracy, in the deaths of four U.S. citizens in the downing of two planes in 1996. It is part of the Trump Administration's increasing pressure campaign against the Cuban government; Senate Budget Committee advances on a party-line vote the budget reconciliation bill that Republicans are using to fund federal immigration agencies without the need to get the votes of Democratic Senators and therefore without the need to incorporate immigration enforcement reforms they demanded; President Trump is asked about the provision in his tax return leak lawsuit settlement that gives him, his family and his businesses immunity from IRS audits and prosecution for any unpaid taxes; House passes a housing affordability bill that is different than the Senate-passed version; Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. attends the signing of "Iowa MAHA", the first comprehensive state law incorporating elements of the Make America Healthy Again agenda; Senate subcommittee holds a hearing on sports betting and prediction markets regulation; Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy is questioned at a Senate subcommittee hearing about who paid for him and his family's cross-country Great American Road Trip promotion; former Rep. Barney Frank (D-MA) has died at age 86. He was one of the first openly gay Members of Congress and remembered for being one the authors of the Dodd-Frank financial reform law.

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Acting AG Blanche defends $1.8B Anti-Weaponization Fund; Pres. Trump endorses TX AG Paxton over Sen. Cornyn in TX Senate GOP primary runoff

Tue, 19 May 2026 23:12:00 -0000

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche defends before a Senate subcommittee the newly-created $1.8 billion Anti-Weaponization Fund designed to compensate people unfairly targeted by the federal government. Democrats on the committee call it President Donald Trump's slush fund; President Trump endorses in the Texas U.S. Senate Republican primary runoff Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton over incumbent Sen. John Cornyn; President Trump tells reporters he was an hour away from ordering more military strikes on Iran when the request came from Mideast allies to give diplomacy another chance; President brings the media out to see the White House ballroom construction site, as Senate Democrats pledge to force Republicans to vote on whether they support a proposed $1 billion in taxpayer money for security upgrades included in a bill scheduled for floor debate this week; Centers for Disease Control & Prevention gives an update on the U.S. response to the deadly Ebola outbreak in Africa; Justice Department says Chinese executives and shipping container companies have been indicted on charges they restricted the supply of shipping containers during the COVID-19 pandemic to raise prices; Congressional Black Caucus Members celebrate that a college sports compensation bill has been pulled from the House floor schedule this week. CBC says it opposes the bill because it would "benefit major athletic institutions that continue to remain silent while Black voting rights and Black political power are being systematically dismantled across the South.”

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Trump Delays Iran Strike, Senate Budget Fight Intensifies, CDC Confirms American Ebola Case

Mon, 18 May 2026 21:53:00 -0000

President Trump says he’s delaying a planned strike on Iran after pressure from Middle Eastern allies to continue diplomatic talks. Meanwhile, Senate Republicans push ahead on their reconciliation bill after key provisions were blocked by the Senate Parliamentarian. Plus — the CDC confirms an American aid worker has tested positive for Ebola amid new travel restrictions tied to the outbreak in Africa, and voters prepare for primary elections in six states.

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The Weekly: Trump’s China Trip, Iran War Powers Fight & Senate Shutdown Pay Vote

Sat, 16 May 2026 16:00:00 -0000

President Trump travels to China for a high-stakes summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping as tensions over trade, Taiwan, and global security continue shaping Washington politics. Congress debates another War Powers Resolution tied to Iran…while the Senate unanimously votes to withhold lawmakers’ pay during government shutdowns. Plus — the head of the U.S. Border Patrol resigns amid the administration’s immigration crackdown…and President Trump unveils plans for a new “National Garden of American Heroes” in Washington’s West Potomac Park. We also look back at the 1972 shooting of Alabama Governor George Wallace during his presidential campaign.

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Weekend Edition: Federal Gas Tax, Career Education and Skilled Trades, and Trump Admin Taking Equity Stakes

Sat, 16 May 2026 08:30:00 -0000

In this weekend's episode, three segments from this past week's Washington Journal.

First: A discussion with Bipartisan Policy Center tax policy director Andrew Lautz about President Trump's proposal to pause the federal gas tax. We'll talk about potential impacts on consumers and tax revenue.

Then: We chat with former Congressman Jason Altmire- President & CEO of Career Education Colleges and Universities – about the role of career education and the skilled trades in today's economy.

Finally: Cato Institute's Tad DeHaven discusses the Trump administration taking equity stakes in private companies and concerns about the federal stock holdings.

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President Trump talks about Taiwan, Iran, political prisoners & trade on flight back from China; Hotline's Editor Kirk Bado on GOP primary challenges to Sen. Cassidy

Fri, 15 May 2026 22:32:00 -0000

President Donald Trump tells reporters he has 'made no commitment either way' on supporting Taiwan following his summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping; President Trump also spoke on the flight home from China about discussions over the Iran war and closing of the Strait of Hormuz to oil shipments, political prisoners in China, and trade deals; House soundly defeats a Republican-sponsored amendment to shift almost half a billion dollars from the Pentagon budget for NATO infrastructure to improving U.S. military bases; House passed overwhelmingly the underlying $157 billion spending bill for military construction and veterans affairs, the first of the FY2027 appropriations bills to pass the House; Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-LA) is facing two Republican opponents in Saturday election primary, one endorsed by President Trump. We will talk about this race and U.S. House redistricting in Louisiana with Kirk Bado, editor of National Journal's Hotline (20); Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN) says he will not run for reelection, after his Black-majority district was redrawn by the Republican-controlled Tennessee legislature; Vice President JD Vance speaks at the National Peace Officers Memorial Service on Capitol Hill; U.S. Attorney for DC Jeanine Pirro says she will prosecute parents of teenagers who violate curfew and engage in sometimes-violent 'teen takeovers'; Updates from the Centers for Disease Control and World Health Organization on the hantavirus outbreak, and a new, deadly Ebola virus outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo; Gov. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA) gives a commencement address at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg.

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Pres. Trump meets Chinese Pres. Xi in Beijing; House defeats Iran War Powers Act resolution for third time; U.S. gives another $1.8 billion to UN for humanitarian aid

Thu, 14 May 2026 22:46:00 -0000

President Donald Trump meets with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing. Trump calls Xi a "great leader" and a "friend," says China wants to help end the Iran war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz and touts that China will buy 200 Boeing jet planes. Xi calls the U.S.-China relationship the most important in the world, but warns disagreements over Taiwan could lead to conflict; CENTCOM Commander Adm. Brad Cooper tells the Senate Armed Services Committee the U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iran achieved all objectives to "significantly degrade" Iran's military capabilities, but Iran still has some left to threaten ships; House defeats for a third time an Iran War Powers Act resolution brought by Democrats to force President Trump to end the war; U.S. Ambassador to the UN Michael Waltz announces the U.S. will contribute another $1.8 billion in humanitarian aid, on top of $2 billion previously pledged; Vice President JD Vance travels to Bangor, Maine, to discuss his White House Task Force to Eliminate Fraud; Senate defeats a Democratic effort to restore a Consumer Financial Protection Bureau rule on bank overdraft fees; House passes a Republican-sponsored bill to put restrictions on companies and non-profits that put up money for criminal defendants to post bail; ATF Director testifies before a House Subcommittee about firearms tracing, tracking the movement of guns used in or suspected of being used in crimes, and what happens to that data.

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Senate confirms Kevin Warsh as Fed chair; House leaders react to Pres. Trump saying, ‘I don’t think about Americans’ financial situation' amid talks to end Iran war

Wed, 13 May 2026 22:49:00 -0000

Senate confirms Kevin Warsh as Federal Reserve Chair, 54-45, mostly along party lines except Se. John Fetterman (D-PA) voted yes; House leaders react to President Donald Trump saying he does not "think about Americans' financial situation" when negotiating with Iran over a deal to end the war; Senate defeats for a seventh time an Iran War Powers Act resolution offered by Democrats to force the President to bring the war to a conclusion; President Trump lands in Beijing, China. He meets President Xi Jinping on Thursday; Vice President JD Vance announces new anti-government spending fraud initiatives, including a nationwide six-month moratorium on Medicare hospice or home health providers and warning states to actively investigate Medicaid fraud or risk losing funding; House debates whether to allow year-round sales of E15, a blend of 85% gasoline & 15% ethanol; CIA whistleblower tells the Senate Homeland Security Committee that Dr. Anthony Fauci, former head of the National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Diseases intentionally tried to cover-up the COVID-19 pandemic's origins in a Chinese lab; House marks National Police Week; Former NBA player Jason Collins, first openly gay athlete in the four major American sports, has died. He spoke at the 2016 Democratic National Convention.

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Iran war pushes inflation to 3-year high; Pres. Trump starts trip to China; FDA Comm. Dr. Makary resigns; Ship operator in Key Bridge collapse indicted

Tue, 12 May 2026 22:40:00 -0000

Labor Department says inflation in April was 3.8 percent year over year, highest in three years, with the Iran war driving up energy and food prices; Senate leaders weigh in on President Trump's proposal to suspend the federal gas tax as the average for a gallon hits $4.50; Pentagon Comptroller Jay Hurst testifies to House & Senate Appropriations subcommittees that the war with Iran has cost so far $29 billion. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth & Gen. Dan Caine, chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff also testify about the Trump Administration's war strategy; President Trump heads to China for a visit with President Xi Jinping on the war with Iran, trade, AI and Taiwan, among other issues; $1 billion added for security upgrades to President Trump's White House ballroom reportedly gets a chilly reception from Senate Republicans; FBI Director Kash Patel is questioned at a Senate subcommittee hearing about news reports alleging a pattern of unexplained absences and excessive drinking; Criminal indictments are announced against the companies that operated the ship that crashed into and collapsed the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore in 2024, killing six workers; FDA Commissioner Dr. Martin Makary says he is resigning; Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) does an impersonation of the late President John F. Kennedy setting the goal of going to the moon, complete with a Boston accent, to celebrate the recent Artemis II mission.

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Trump Says Iran Ceasefire on “Life Support” as Congress Returns for Surveillance, Immigration Fights

Mon, 11 May 2026 22:00:00 -0000

President Trump says the ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran is on “massive life support” after Iran’s latest counterproposal to end the war.

Media reports say Tehran’s offer included demands for war reparations…control over the Strait of Hormuz…an end to U.S. sanctions…and the return of frozen assets.

Iran also sought to keep nuclear talks separate from negotiations over the Strait.

The president called the terms “simply unacceptable.” He spoke to reporters at the White House today — we’ll play some of what he said.

Congress is back in town this week after a weeklong recess…with Republicans looking to use the reconciliation process to fund immigration enforcement without Democratic support.

Also on tap this week: an extension of the nation’s warrantless surveillance powers, set to expire June 15th.

And the 17 Americans who were aboard a cruise ship with a hantavirus outbreak are back in the U.S. today…where they’ll be quarantined and monitored.

One passenger has tested positive for the virus. Another is experiencing mild symptoms.

Health officials say the risk of a large-scale hantavirus outbreak remains low. We’ll hear from them coming up.

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The Weekly: Iran Conflict, Trump Influence, and Redistricting Fights Shape the 2026 Midterms

Sat, 09 May 2026 16:00:00 -0000

This week on The Weekly, tensions with Iran remain front and center — as President Donald Trump insists a ceasefire is holding, even as U.S. and Iranian forces exchange strikes in and around the Strait of Hormuz and questions grow in Congress over presidential war powers.

A major redistricting ruling in Virginia. The Supreme Court of Virginia strikes down a voter-approved referendum, restoring the state’s congressional map and dealing a setback to Democrats as the fight over control of the House intensifies nationwide.

And — Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick faces scrutiny on Capitol Hill over his past ties to Jeffrey Epstein.

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Weekend Edition: John Bolton on the war in Iran, Rising National Debt, and Mental Health Policy in the United States

Sat, 09 May 2026 08:00:00 -0000

In this weekend's episode, three segments from this past week's Washington Journal.

First: A discussion about the Trump administration's handling of the War in Iran, with the National Security Adviser in the FIRST Trump administration - John Bolton.

Then: Concord Coalition executive director and former Democratic congresswoman Carolyn Bourdeaux discusses the rising national debt and a new government report stating it has surpassed 100% of GDP for the first time since World War II.

Finally: with May being Mental Health Awareness Month - a conversation with psychologist and former Republican Congressman Tim Murphy about where mental health policy is falling short in the U.S.

But we begin with John Bolton, former Trump National Security Adviser, who discusses the War in Iran and the proposed "Memorandum of Understanding" to end the conflict.

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Virginia Supreme Court strikes down new Dem.-leaning Cong. district map; April jobs report; Sec. of State Rubio on meeting Pope; Pentagon releases UAP files

Fri, 08 May 2026 22:16:00 -0000

Virginia Supreme Court strikes down the Congressional redistricting referendum approved by Virginia voters that would have created a new map that favored Democrats, ruling the state legislature did not follow proper state Constitutional amendment procedures; U.S. military says it fired on two Iranian-flagged oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, as Secretary of Marco Rubio says the U.S. is expecting a response from Iran to the latest peace plan soon; Secretary Rubio also talks about his meeting this week with Pope Leo XIV on the Iran War and the humanitarian situation in Cuba; April jobs report comes in better than most expected. Labor Department says 115,000 jobs were created, and the unemployment rate stayed at 4.3%; President Donald Trump hosts a Mother's Day luncheon at the White House for mothers whose children were killed in military service or by illegal immigrants. President says of the latter, "they saw their precious children stolen from them by the open border policies of the radical left"; Great Britain's ruling Labour Party led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer loses big in local elections against the upstart Reform UK Party led by Nigel Farage. We talk about it with C-SPAN's Westminster Correspondent Peter Knowles (40) ; Pentagon releases a batch of declassified files on Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP), also called UFO's. We talk about that with Associated Press White House reporter Colin Binkley. (51)

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U.S., Gulf allies draft UN Sec. Council resolution condemning Iran for blocking Strait of Hormuz; Tenn. GOP passes new Cong. district map to flip sole Dem seat

Thu, 07 May 2026 22:52:00 -0000

U.S. and Gulf allies present a draft United Nations Security Council resolution condemning Iran's stopping commercial shipping, especially oil tankers, in Strait of Hormuz; Federal court of appeals is reportedly skeptical of the Pentagon's military punishment of Sen. Mark Kelly (D-AZ) for his part in a video reminding servicemembers they have a duty not to follow illegal orders; World Health Organization reassures the world that the handful of hantavirus deaths on a cruise ship is not the start of a pandemic like COVID or SARS; Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Review Council issues its final report recommending changes, in many cases reductions, in how the federal government helps states respond to natural disasters. We will hear from the council co-chair and talk about it with Andrew Rumbach, Co-Lead, Climate and Communities Program with the Urban Institute (34); Republican majority in the Tennessee legislature passes and the Republican governor signs into law a new congressional district map aimed at flipping the only Democratic seat in the nine member Congressional delegation to Republican; Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) hosts a National Day of Prayer program in the Capitol Building; Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy takes the first ride on the "Freedom 250" Acela train to celebrate America's 250th anniversary; National Capitol Planning Commission meets to consider President Trump's proposal to paint the Eisenhower Executive Office Building's gray granite exterior bright white.

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Iran says it is reviewing latest U.S. peace plan; White House salute to military mothers; Commerce Sec Lutnick testifies in Epstein probe; Ted Turner dies

Wed, 06 May 2026 23:00:00 -0000

Iran says it is looking over the latest U.S. plan to end the war, while President Donald Trump issues a new ultimatum to Iran: accept a deal to end the war or face U.S. bombing “at a much higher level and intensity than it was before”; President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump pay tribute to mothers of military servicemembers ahead of Mother's Day. First Lady says, "At the very heart of America’s strength lies the boundless love and quiet power of mothers"; Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick is interviewed in closed session by the House Oversight Committee in the investigation of the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein; major party candidates are set in the Ohio U.S. Senate race after Tuesday's primaries: incumbent Republican Jon Husted vs. former Democratic Senator Sherrod Brown; national debt reaches 100% of GDP, highest since World War II; Border Czar Tom Homan threatens a federal immigration enforcement surge in New York if that state passes a sanctuary law; CNN founder Ted Turner has died age of 87.

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Pres. Trump & Defense Sec. Hegseth say Iran ceasefire still holds despite attacks in Strait of Hormuz; Rep. Garcia (D-TX) celebrates Cinco de Mayo

Tue, 05 May 2026 22:43:00 -0000

President Donald Trump & Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth both say the ceasefire in the war with Iran still holds, despite the attacks from Iran on U.S. ships and U.S. sinking Iranian small military boats; Secretary of State Marco Rubio fills in for White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt at a White House news conference while she is on maternity leave and is asked about his meeting later this week with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican after President Trump again on Monday criticized the Pope over the Pope's criticism of the President's handling of the Iran War; Rep. Sylvia Garcia (D-TX) celebrates Cinco de Mayo; Vice President JD Vance votes in Cincinnati, Ohio on this primary day; President Trump signs a proclamation bringing back the Presidential Physical Fitness Test; Health & Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. outlines steps to reduce what he says is the overprescription of antidepressants; apparently successful petition is submitted to the Edmonton, Alberta, Canada election office to trigger an independence referendum for the province.

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U.S. & Iran fire shots on first day of Pres. Trump's 'Project Freedom' to get ships through Strait of Hormuz; Supreme Court put stay on ruling blocking access to abortion pill by mail

Mon, 04 May 2026 22:46:00 -0000

First day of a new strategy President Donald Trump calls Project Freedom to guide ships through the Strait of Hormuz, and there are reports of attacks by both the U.S. and Iran; Spirit Airlines goes out of business over the weekend, blaming the rising cost of fuel from the war with Iran, but Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy is pointing to a Biden Administration decision to block a merger with JetBlue a few years ago; Supreme Court blocks a lower court ruling that had stopped access to the abortion pill mifepristone at pharmacies or through the mail, without an in-person visit to a doctor; two National Guard members who saved the lives of civilians and other servicemembers during last year's targeted attack on the Guard on Washington, DC streets, receive medals at the Pentagon for their bravery; Justice Department announces the investigation of potential antitrust violations in U.S. cattle and beef meatpacking markets that have led to high beef prices; Ireland is the latest country to sign the Artemis Accords, the U.S.-led effort to establish rules for the exploration and commercialization of the moon, Mars and beyond.

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The Weekly: Hegseth Faces Congress, King Charles Visits DC, Lawmakers Pass FISA & Budget Package

Sat, 02 May 2026 16:00:00 -0000

This week, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced lawmakers on both sides of Capitol Hill—pressed on U.S. policy in Iran, military posture, and the path forward amid rising global tensions.

Across town, a royal visit drew attention and diplomatic focus—as King Charles III arrived in Washington, highlighting the state of U.S.-U.K. relations at a complicated moment.

On Capitol Hill, lawmakers moved major legislation—passing an extension of FISA surveillance authorities and advancing a budget reconciliation package after a marathon round of votes in the Senate.

And in the aftermath of the White House Correspondents' Dinner, questions lingered about political rhetoric and security following a high-profile incident that drew bipartisan reaction.

That’s all ahead on The Weekly.

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Weekend Edition: Leadership at the Federal Reserve, National Women's Defense League, US..-Iran War

Sat, 02 May 2026 08:00:00 -0000

In this weekend's episode, three segments from this past week's Washington Journal.

First: A conversation with Axios Chief Economic Correspondent Neil Irwin about the looming change in leadership at the Federal Reserve and how the ongoing Iran conflict is muddying the economic picture in the U-S..

Then: A discussion about sexual misconduct allegations by Member of Congress and other public officials with Emma Davidson Tribbs from the National Women's Defense League.

Finally: Retired U.S. Army Major General Randy Manner discusses the latest developments in the U.S.-Iran war and recent firings at the Pentagon.

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President Trump rejects latest offer from Iran, won't comply with War Powers Act; AP reporter Ali Swenson on new Surgeon General nominee

Fri, 01 May 2026 22:48:00 -0000

President Donald Trump says he is rejecting the latest offer from Iran to end the war with the U.S. and Israel, and the President says he is not complying with the War Powers Act to withdraw U.S. forces after 60 days or get Congressional authorization because no other President has followed that law. His administration is also arguing the 60-day clock stopped with the ceasefire; President Trump has threatened this week to withdraw U.S. troops from Germany and some other European countries whose leaders have been critical of his handling of the war with Iran. We will talk about that with Wall Street Journal National Security Correspondent Michael Gordon (13) ; The President visits The Villages retirement community in Florida to promote new tax provisions that benefit seniors such as 'no tax on Social Security'; President Trump withdraws the nomination of Dr. Casey Means for Surgeon General, who had lost support of pivotal Republican Senators and nominates Dr. Nicole Saphier instead. We will talk about that with Associated Press National Political Reporter Ali Swenson (36); former President Joe Biden makes his first endorsement of the campaign season, Keisha Lance Bottoms for governor of Georgia; Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D-MI) gives life-lesson advice to the graduates at her alma mater, Michigan State University.

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Homeland Security Dept. shutdown ends after 76 days; House passes 5-year farm bill after stripping pesticide maker liability protections

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 22:40:00 -0000

On Day 76 of the Homeland Security Department shutdown, the House joins the Senate in passing a full fiscal-year spending bill to fund all the department's agencies except ICE & CBP; Illinois Accountability Commission releases its final report on what it says were abuses by federal immigration agents in Chicago; Commerce Department says core inflation is 3.2%, driven by higher fuel prices from the war with Iran; Senate votes for a sixth time almost along party lines to block a Democratic resolution to require the U.S. stop military action against Iran without Congressional authorization; President Donald Trump signs an executive order to create a new government website where people can find and compare private-sector retirement savings accounts; House passes a five-year farm bill, after passing an amendment to remove a provision that would have given pesticide companies immunity from some liability claims; FCC Chair Brendan Carr says the White House did not pressure the commission to start an early review of Disney's broadcast licenses over President Trump's feud with ABC late night talk show host Jimmy Kimmel; Senate bans Senators from betting on prediction markets; King Charles III & Queen Camilla finish up their state visit to the U.S.

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Def. Sec. Hegseth testifies before Congress on Iran War for 1st time; Supreme Court rules Louisiana majority-Black Cong. district unconditional racial gerrymandering

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 23:42:00 -0000

Iran War hits the 60 day mark, and President Donald Trump is asked when it might end and the Strait of Hormuz might reopen; Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth testifies before a Congressional committee for the first time since the start of the Iran War, saying the biggest obstacle for U.S. success in the war is Congressional Democrats and some Republicans; Pentagon's Chief Financial Officer testifies that the cost of the war so far is $25 billion; Federal Reserve votes to leave interest rates unchanged, and chair Jerome Powell says he plans to stay on as Fed governor after his term as chair expires in two weeks because the Justice Department's criminal investigation of him is not fully settled; Senate Banking Committee approves the president's nominee for the next Fed chair, Kevin Warsh, in a party line vote; House passes a 3-year reauthorization of FISA Sect. 702 spying power, with opponents looking to add a requirement for a warrant to record Americans' conversations; Supreme Court strikes down a Louisiana Congressional district map as unconstitutional racial gerrymandering; Supreme Court hears oral argument in a case about the Trump Administration's efforts to end deportation protections for hundreds of thousands of Haitians and Syrians in the U.S.; former Attorney General Pam Bondi has scheduled a date to be interviewed by the House Oversight Committee in the Jeffrey Epstein investigation; Great Britain's King Charles III and Queen Camilla visit New York City.

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UK's King & Queen welcomed at White House, King Charles speaks to Joint Meeting of Cong.; Fmr. FBI Dir Comey indicted for post 'threatening' Pres. Trump

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 22:46:00 -0000

Great Britain's King Charles III and Queen Camilla receive a state visit welcome at the White House, and the King addresses a joint meeting of Congress. President Donald Trump says 'Americans have had no closer friends than the British.' King Charles emphasizes the two countries' history of “reconciliation and renewal” and says the U.S.-UK bond is ‘irreplaceable and unbreakable.’ We hear from both and speak about the royal visit with c-span's Westminster Correspondent Peter Knowles (11); Former FBI Director James Comey has been indicted on charges alleging he threatened President Trump when he posted an image of seashells spelling out “8647” on his Instagram last year; U.S. House is trying again to move forward with this week's agenda, including reauthorization of the foreign spying power known as FISA Sect. 702, the Farm Bill, and budget reconciliation, the process for funding immigration agencies with only Republican votes; Florida's legislative starts debate on a mid-decade Congressional redistricting plan that could give Republicans four more U.S. House seats; New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani extends the deadline to present a budget, as he seeks from the state government authorization to collect more revenue and close a multi-billion dollar budget gap.

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Attempted Assassination Charge in Washington as Lawmakers Race on FISA and DHS Shutdown

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 22:08:00 -0000

A man is now facing federal charges after an alleged attempt to assassinate the president at the White House Correspondents Dinner—sending shockwaves through Washington and prompting urgent questions about political violence and security.

In this episode, we break down the charges against Cole Tomas Allen, what investigators say about his alleged motive, and what officials—including Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, FBI Director Kash Patel, and Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt—are saying publicly.

On Capitol Hill, lawmakers from both parties weigh in on the attack and the increasingly heated political climate, all while racing to finish key business before recess—including renewing FISA Section 702 and ending the partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security.

We’ll bring you the latest details, reaction from Washington, and what comes next.

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