C-SPAN Radio - C-SPAN's The Weekly

June 13th, 1992. Jesse Jackson is hosting a conference of the National Rainbow Coalition. Reverend Jackson introduces the main speaker: "Finally, Governor Clinton is with us because he is from Hope, Arkansas. Anyone from Hope, Arkansas certainly wants to keep hope alive. I bring to you the next Democratic nominee for the president of the United States of America governor Bill Clinton from Arkansas, Hope Arkansas." A few minutes later: A presidential campaign earthquake. • What happened next? • How did it impact the 1992 presidential campaign? • And who is Sister Souljah — and what does she have to do with Jesse Jackson and Bill Clinton? Find out in the latest episode of C-SPAN's podcast "Extreme Mortman" – as we mark both the 2026 death of Jesse Jackson and the 1992 birth of a phrase which quickly entered the political campaign lexicon – and has been there ever since. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don't let the cynics and skeptics try to convince you otherwise: State of the Union addresses DO matter. Need proof? Foreign policy. Because many of the hotspots and crises and issues America faces around the world now have been talked about in State of the Union speeches going back decades.  For example, 20 years ago: "Tonight let me speak directly to the citizens of Iran: America respects you, and we respect your country. We respect your right to choose your own future and win your own freedom. And our Nation hopes one day to be the closest of friends with a free and democratic Iran." That was President George W. Bush — in 2006. In the latest episode of C-SPAN's podcast "Extreme Mortman" — we hear from Presidents talking in their State of the Union addresses about countries and leaders we still talk about today. In how many different State of the Union addresses has a president mentioned Hamas? And how many of those addresses were by George W. Bush? Which Soviet leader died within two weeks of which president giving a State of the Union speech - in which year?  And - you might remember, at the end of President Trump's 2020 address, Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi famously and angrily and dramatically ripped up her copy of the text. But during one section of that speech, she stood up and applauded. What was the topic? So, why do State of the Union addresses matter — specifically, in foreign policy?   Find out in the latest episode of C-SPAN's "Extreme Mortman." Find "Extreme Mortman" wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In December 1999, legendary Washington Post reporter Lou Cannon joined C-SPAN for a special program at the Reagan Ranch in Santa Barbara California .. It was the thirty-ninth in a series on American presidents ... A biographer of - and authority on - Ronald Regan, Lou Cannon talked with the C-SPAN audience — and took calls — for three hours:     BRIAN LAMB: Any reaction to this whole three hours, to being up here on the ranch again. Anything that comes mind.   LOU CANNON: 3 hours is a long time. I might have said this at the beginning. But maybe you should end where you begin. Ronald Reagan had many sides to him. The side people that people saw was this performer. The performer as actor. The performer as governor. The performer as president. But he also needed time to himself. He also liked to be off stage. He also liked to be by himself. This was the place he came when he was off stage.     In December 2025, Lou Cannon passed away … For decades, he appeared on C-SPAN programs and took calls …  And his son Carl Cannon, also an accomplished journalist and author, continues to do so.   Like the latest episode of C-SPAN's podcast "Extreme Mortman."   Carl Cannon joins us to remember his father.   We hear clips of Lou Cannon talking about his books, his reporting, President Reagan – and talking about Carl Cannon.   What did Lou Cannon say about his son?   How does Carl Cannon react to hearing his father talk about him?   And what inside stories do we learn about Lou Cannon as a reporter, as an author – and as a father.   Find out in the latest episode of "Extreme Mortman."   With very special guest – Carl Cannon.   Find "Extreme Mortman" wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Here's one thing you don't normally hear mentioned in the prayer: The Super Bowl. But one day, that did happen. "Lord, give our Senators unity to light the symphony with its variety of instruments, its many different notes which produce grand harmonies. May our lawmakers reduce these melodies on this Super Bowl Sunday." That was Senate chaplain Dr. Barry Black. With this year's Super Bowl approaching, this week's episode of C-SPAN's podcast "Extreme Mortman" remembers one historic day when U.S. Senators were debating and football teams were playing — both at the same time ... and both with a lot at stake.   When was the Senate in session on Super Bowl Sunday? Why was the Senate in session on Super Bowl Sunday? And which Senators talked about the Super Bowl — and what did they say?  Find out in this week's episode of C-SPAN's podcast "Extreme Mortman."  Find "Extreme Mortman" wherever you get podcasts.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In September 1993, Ross Perot held a press conference on Capitol Hill. He was surrounded by members from both parties. The topic: the then-secretive and mysterious discharge petition: "Well, this is a great day for our country. I am certain that the framers of the Constitution and the signers of the Declaration of Independence are looking down from heaven smiling on this reform. For 63 years, there was a handful of leaders in the House of Representatives who decided the agenda, not the members of the House. This was an unlikely event to occur, but it did occur because of the leadership and the courage of the people who signed that petition." Soon after Ross Perot's 1993 press conference, the House of Representatives ended its 63- year-old tradition of secrecy surrounding discharge petitions. They became public.  And so did the list of members who signed them. And that changed everything. What is a discharge petition? How does it work? And in 2026, what does it have to do with health care… with members of Congress owning stocks .. and with Jeffrey Epstein? And -- how has the discharge petition changed politics in Congress – particularly when the Republican House majority is razor thin? Scott Wong Has Answers! … The NBC News senior congressional reporter joins C-SPAN's podcast "Extreme Mortman" …. Scott Wong explains how the discharge petition has become a game changer in Congress. So, if you have lots of questions about the discharge petition – but were afraid to ask – then listen to the latest episode of "Extreme Mortman" – with very special guest - Scott Wong of NBC News. Find "Extreme Mortman" wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Recently, the Washington Post ran a story headlined "8 political sex scandals that threw the nation into a frenzy." Longtime Post reporter Roxanne Roberts wrote that story. Here's one politician who made Roxanne Roberts' list: "We're all going to have to seriously question the system for selecting our national leaders that reduces the press of this nation to hunters and presidential candidates to being hunted, that has reporters in bushes, false and inaccurate stories printed, photographers peeking in our windows, swarms of helicopters hovering over our roof and my very strong wife close to tears because she can't even get in her own house at night without being harassed. And then, after all that, ponderous pundits wonder in mock seriousness why some of the best people in this country choose not to run for high office."   Who was that and how did he get on the list of 8? Who are the other seven? What's the history behind each of the frenzies? And what do they all have in common? In the latest episode of C-SPAN's podcast "Extreme Mortman" – find out. Our very special guest -- Roxanne Roberts herself – she goes through each of the political sex scandals which made her Washington Post list. And we hear clips about the scandals from most of the politicians and those individuals they were involved with. It's a special two-parter of "Extreme Mortman." This week's episode is part 2. Find C-SPAN's Extreme Mortman wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Recently, the Washington Post ran a story headlined "8 political sex scandals that threw the nation into a frenzy." Longtime Post reporter Roxanne Roberts wrote that story. Here's one politician who made Roxanne Roberts' list: "We're all going to have to seriously question the system for selecting our national leaders that reduces the press of this nation to hunters and presidential candidates to being hunted, that has reporters in bushes, false and inaccurate stories printed, photographers peeking in our windows, swarms of helicopters hovering over our roof and my very strong wife close to tears because she can't even get in her own house at night without being harassed. And then, after all that, ponderous pundits wonder in mock seriousness why some of the best people in this country choose not to run for high office."   Who was that and how did he get on the list of 8? Who are the other seven? What's the history behind each of the frenzies? And what do they all have in common? In the latest episode of C-SPAN's podcast "Extreme Mortman" – find out. Our very special guest -- Roxanne Roberts herself – she goes through each of the political sex scandals which made her Washington Post list. And we hear clips about the scandals from most of the politicians and those individuals they were involved with. It's a special two-parter of "Extreme Mortman." Find C-SPAN's Extreme Mortman wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, the annual Consumer Electronics Show is being held in Las Vegas Nevada. You might find members of Congress attending. Like Democratic Senator Jacky Rosen … "I got to do something fun a couple of weeks ago because in my home state of Nevada we host the Consumer Electronic Show and let me tell you what I saw there was just amazing. How technology is going to advance people with disabilities, people who are aging, it is going to improve our travel, our home, even our cooking, there are washing machines that will just about do everything for you except put away the laundry and so it is really tremendous." That was Senator Rosen speaking at a January 22nd, 2020, Senate Commerce hearing on 5G Technology. Which other members of Congress have said they attended the show? What else from the Consumer Electronics Show has inspired them? And what do members of Congress and Senators say about the show being held in Las Vegas? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In 2025, you watched and listened to a lot of C-SPAN. Can you name your favorite moments from the past year? Here's one person who can: Cate Martel. You know Cate Martel as a longtime reporter for The Hill and creator of The Hill's 12:30 Report newsletter. C-SPAN's podcast "Extreme Mortman" asked Cate Martel for her favorite C-SPAN moments in 2025. Here's one which made her list: "Look, now there is no guarantee that the show is always good or that it'll go off without a hitch or it doesn't have its, uh, hecklers. Yeah. But the show must go on. And, if you're with your people, and you won't have to do it alone. Because life is not a solo act. No, it's not. It's a big, messy, delightful ensemble piece, especially when you're with your people." That was Kermit the Frog giving the 2025 commencement address at the University of Maryland. Which other moments made Cate Martel's best-of 2025-on-C-SPAN list? Who wore hard hats and other protective gear on C-SPAN in 2025 – much to Cate Martel's considerable amusement? And – gosh – why is Kermit the Frog on Cate Martel's list? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Extreme Mortman is a fast-paced podcast hosted by Howard Mortman that dives into American politics, history, and the vast C-SPAN Video Library. With a mix of commentary, archival clips, and playful challenges, Mortman brings decades of Washington moments to life. The podcast offers both insight and entertainment, drawing on C-SPAN's unmatched archives to connect past events with today's political conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Over the summer, C-SPAN's podcast "Extreme Mortman" did an episode all about Presidents – and summer vactions. Now - time for the sequel – Presidents – and winter vacations! Like the one Barack Obama took – which he previewed during a 2013 press conference – a few days before Christmas: "So the end of the year is always a good time to reflect and see what can you do better next year. That's how I intend to approach it. I'm sure that I will have even better ideas after a couple days of sleep and sun." And George W. Bush, on vacation in 2002, New Year's Eve: "Hi, guys. Happy New Year to everybody. Laura and I wish all our fellow Americans a prosperous and peaceful and a happy new year. We are really happy to be spending New Year here in Crawford, Texas. We'll be having our New Year's hamburger here in a minute." Just like with presidents and summer vacation, by now you're likely wondering: • Where do our Presidents go for winter vacation? • Do they get work done during winter vacation? • Who pays for the trip? • And what do political junkies and National Journal veterans Kirk Bado and Ledge King –– say about presidents and winter vacations? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hollywood legend Robert Redford didn't just make movies. He also spoke at the National Press Club. Where he talked about his movies. Like "All the President's Men." "We had some people within the Post that were unflagging in their cooperation, like Bob Woodward. He was -- you know he may have had something to gain in it, but he was incredibly cooperative, even against the heat of his own paper. And it was through Bob and Carl -- their notes, we were able to construct a lot of the screenplay from because I wasn't able to get enough information from the original screenplay. So, we went back with them and just took all their notes and constructed a lot of the dramatic scenes from their notes." That was Robert Redford at the National Press Club in September 1994. The actor's recent death had many media and political junkies remembering that movie about the Washington Post and Watergate. And likely a few questions came to mind: • What did Bob Woodward and his colleagues say "All the President's Men" got right - and what did the movie get wrong? • What else did Robert Redford himself say about the Washington Post, Bob Woodward — and his Academy Award-winning movie? • And a question few Americans ever have had the chance to consider: What did Bob Woodward think of Robert Redford playing him? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

December 7th, 1992 ... The East Room of the White House.... The President and White House staff gather for a Christmas Ceremony.... The mood is gloomy, sad, glum. A month earlier, President George Bush lost his reelection campaign. The president is introduced, the staff applauds — but then a surprise - and the mood changes entirely: "Not gonna do it. Wouldn't be prudent. At this juncture. That was the other one. Wouldn't be prudent at this juncture. That thing, doing that thing. Now, I always did this thing. I always said that the President goes, "It's bad, it's bad," but you only did it once. I did it for four years. He did it once. So. I don't know. do you want to come on up." That was comedian Dana Carvey. And, with his urging, President Bush did come on up.. Now, 33 years later, we're still talking about politicians and their relationships with comedians who make fun of them. In this week's episode of C-SPAN's "Extreme Mortman" — we remember when a comedian did an impression of a president — and the president did an impression of the comedian doing an impresion of the president. What did that sound like? How did Dana Carvey get to play the White House? And perhaps most important — What did President Bush think of Dana Carvey's impression? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ahhh... Thanksgiving … That uniquely American tradition of sitting around the bountiful dinner table, enjoying the company of family and friends, and remembering this 1955 Newsreel: "As Thanksgiving nears, a seasonal gift to President Eisenhower is this strutting, impressive 39-pound Tom Turkey. Handsomest bird in all Nebraska. And perhaps the other 47 states as well. All the trimmings for the White House dinner come with him. A big basket of cranberries to complete the holiday platter. It's a lucky bird that graces the President's table. And he's gobbling with excitement at the prospect." Sadly for handsome 39-pound Tom Turkey, his luck soon ran out. President Eisenhower ate him. Decades later, with America more enlighted, tukeys no longer get eaten. They get pardoned. Presidential pardons. These days, Thanksgiving presidential turkey pardons are big, extravagant White House events. With comical turkey names, comical turkey quips, and lots of giggles and gobbles. Which can mean only thing: It's time for an "Extreme Mortman" White House Thanksgiving Presidential Turkey Pardon Ceremony contest. Featuring a very special guest – the host of the Politics Politics Politics podcast – a true political junkie – Justin Robert Young ... • What are the contest questions? • What are the contest answers? • And why is Justin Young best equipped to be the guest? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Time now for more great news for political junkies: The new edition of the Almanac of American Politics - is out! So, let's hear from Texas Republican Senator Ted Cruz Right now, Caroline and Catherine are both at home getting ready to go to bed, and they have both turned on the television. They are both watching C–SPAN. Now I'm going to confess that Caroline and Catherine don't usually watch C–SPAN since there are far too few animated features on C–SPAN. But because the girls are watching, and my wife Heidi is watching with them, I wanted to take an opportunity—an opportunity I don't usually have when I am in DC—to read them a couple of bedtime stories   What do those 2013 Ted Cruz floor remarks from have to do with the 2026 Almanac of American Politics? In the next episode of C-SPAN's podcast "Extreme Mortman," find out! We talk with Lou Jacobson. He's chief author of the 2026 Almanac. Lou Jacobson has picked five big moments in Congress seen and heard on C-SPAN reported in the Almanac. What are the five moments? And what does Lou Jacobson say about each of them? Find out in "Extreme Mortman." Find C-SPAN's "Extreme Mortman" wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After conservative activist Charlie Kirk was assassinated in September 2025, President Trump spoke at a memorial service at a stadium in Arizona: In that private moment, on his dying day, we find everything we need to know about who Charlie Kirk truly was. He was a missionary with a noble spirit and a great, great purpose. He did not hate his opponents. He wanted the best for them. That's where I disagreed with Charlie. I hate my opponent and I don't want the best for them. I'm sorry. I am sorry, Erika. Commenting and consoling after a shooting or domestic attack has been a ritual for every president since the early 1990s. What have presidents said each time they occurred? How has presidential rhetoric changed over the past four decades? And when do Presidents use political language — and when do they use spiritural and religious language — in their remarks? Find out in the latest episode of C-SPAN's podcast "Extreme Mortman" — as we hear every president from Bill Clinton through Donald Trump speak about shootings, domestic attacks, and the people who died. And for context and explanation, we're joined by a special guest: presidential historian Dr. Tevi Troy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Over the years, Dick Cheney spoke many times at CPAC, the marquee conservative political gathering. Which means, over the years, Dick Cheney got many introductions at CPAC. Like this one in 2006 – from conservative leader David Keene … "It falls upon me this evening to once again introduce a friend who not to be too trite about it needs no introduction. Vice President Dick Cheney has appeared here before. In fact, with the sole exception of former President Ronald Reagan, he's the highest-ranking official with a continuing relationship with CPAC, and indeed with the movement of which we're all a part." In the current conservative political climate, such a welcome for Dick Cheney might sound unfamiliar … How did CPAC leaders introduce Dick Cheney to CPAC crowds? How did the audiences react? And what were some surprises along the way? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Halloween! When everything is scary. Can you name a scary moment in politics? How about this one: LITTLE GIRL plucking daisy petals: One, two, three, four, five, seven, six, six, eight, nine "MISSION CONTROL": Ten, nine, eight, seven, six, five, four, three, two, one, zero SOUND EFFECTS: Huge atomic bomb blast. Pretty scary, right? That was from the 1964 presidential campaign … Lyndon Johnson's "Daisy" ad he used against Barry Goldwater. It showed a little girl plucking a daisy … Then: images of nuclear destruction. ... Then, LBJ says: "We must either love each other. Or we must die." The ad ran just one time … But that was enough to make it famous … And it was enough to make the list of 11 scary moments in politics… As you'll hear in the latest episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly" …Timed for Halloween and with a very special guest: Managing Editor of National Journal Daily - Ledge King. Which ten other political moments make the scary list? And what does Ledge King say about each of them? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

June 8th, 1987 ... Day Eighteen of the Iran-Contra hearings … Congressman Lee Hamilton is presiding … and Lieutenant Colonel Oliver North's secretary is testifying. Lee Hamilton: "Ms. Hall, I understand that you have an opening statement. Am I correct?" Fawn Hall: "Yes, sir." Lee Hamilton: "You may proceed." Fawn Hall: "My name is Fawn Hall, and I reside with my parents in Northern Virginia, where I was born and raised. I attended Annandale High School and graduated in 1977. I started working at the age of 15, and at 16, while still in high school began my career in government, working for the Department of the Navy. During this period, I also held various part-time jobs, including modeling." Now, nearly four decades later, Oliver North is 82 years old … Fawn Hall is 66 years old – and — he's no longer her boss ... and - she's no longer his secretary ... Oliver North and Fawn Hall just got married! – to each other! For those of you with no idea who we're talking about .. and for those who know exactly who we're talking about – their marriage gives C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly" a reason to remember the blockbuster Iran-Contra hearings that dominated politics in the summer of 1987. What did Oliver North say about Fawn Hall? And what did Fawn Hall say about Oliver North? Find out in the latest episode of C-SPAN's "The Weekly." Find C-SPAN's "The Weekly" wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There was a time, decades ago, when politicians where astounded every time they went online and discovered – to their glee – they had mail. Like Harry Reid – here's the Democratic Senator from Nevada on October 27th, 1999: "Today, it's hard for me to comprehend what has taken place in the advancement of science. At home at my computer, I go home at night and see if I have received any e-mail on my computer. It is easy to do. I open my computer, and it says, ‘'You've got mail.' I open that up and find out who has contacted me by email, and it is like magic. I press a button, and I can reply to that person as quickly as I can type that message out. That message is sent quicker, of course, than the speed of light. It is gone."   Senator Reid said getting mail online was like magic -- suggesting powerful forces summoned by the supernatural. But it really was just dial up internet service provided by America Online.  Now AOL is shutting down that relic of the 1990s … and with it goes that once ubiquitous phrase -- "You've got mail." … It may be officially gone, but for C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly" – "You've got mail" lives on – No mourning here, just celebration…Which we'll do in this week's episode – as we remember a brave new tech world decades ago, when politicians were dazzled every time they dialed up and discovered – They had mail. Who were these politicians – and what did they say? Find out in C-SPAN's "The Weekly." Find C-SPAN's "The Weekly" wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ten years ago this month, in October 2015, John Boehner's tenure as U.S. House Speaker came to an end … and the influence the House Freedom Caucus held over Republicans was at its height …. REPORTER QUESTION: The Freedom Caucus has caused you a lot of problems. Obviously, here in your final act, you're rolling them. Can you describe your thought process there? SPEAKER BOEHNER: I wouldn't quite describe it that way. We have a bipartisan agreement that makes sure that the debt ceiling is increased and we make good on our -- on our debt and our debt service, and it paves the way to fund the government this year and next. And the fact is is that this will make it easier for the entire Congress for the balance of this year and it'll make next year a whole lot smoother for the Congress as well. That was John Boehner's final press conference as House Speaker …October 27th, 2015… • Does the Freedom Caucus today still cause a different Republican House speaker "a lot of problems"? • What happened to the House Freedom Caucus over the last ten years? • And how are Republican House politics different now from when John Boehner resigned as Speaker a decade ago? Find out in this week's episode of C-SPAN's "The Weekly" as we remember the House Freedom Caucus ten years ago – and where it is now -- with two very special podcast guests: • Paul Kane - - senior congressional correspondent and columnist at the Washington Post • and Leigh Ann Caldwell -- Chief Washington Correspondent at Puck. Find C-SPAN's The Weekly wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President Richard Nixon — and the 1973 Yom Kippur War.As war continues now in the Middle East, and as an American president is drawn into that conflict, and as Jews mark the holiest day of the year, Yom Kippur —  this week's episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly" revisits what happened in 1973. "In his second term, he would order the strategic air lift that saved Israel in the Yom Kippur war. Israel never had a better friend, said Golda Meir."   That was Pat Buchanan, an aide to President Nixon. Pat Buchanan spoke at a January 2013 celebration marking the 100th anniversary of Nixon's birth, hosted by the Nixon Foundation.   What did Richard Nixon say about his actions during the 1973 Yom Kippur War? How about the people who were with him at the time? And how do historians remember President Nixon's role in rescuing Israel during that war?   Find out in C-SPAN's "The Weekly."Find C-SPAN's "The Weekly" wherever you get podcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's that wonderful time of year ... time for the Major League Baseball post-season. And not just time for the playoffs and the World Series – but also time for politicians to talk about the playoffs and the World Series. In particular, Presidents and presidential candidates. Like President Donald Trump ... November 4th, 2019 ... welcoming the World Series champions Washington Nationals to the South Lawn of the White House… "Today, the First Lady and I are thrilled to welcome to the White House the 2019 World Series Champions, the Washington Nationals. For the first time in nearly 100 years, our nation's capital is celebrating a World Series victory. That's big stuff. The last time Washington, D.C. was home to the World Series champs, the President was a gentleman named Calvin Coolidge. That's a long time ago." In this week's episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly," hear eight memorable moments when the baseball post-season intersected with presidents and presidential candidates. And then learn the political history AND the baseball history surrounding each memorable moment -with a very special guest. Carl Cannon .. .He's Washington Bureau Chief of RealClearPolitics and Executive Editor of RealClear Media Group…. Carl Cannon has the two requisite requirements for this episode: He's a presidential historian … and he's a baseball fanatic. Which are the 8 memorable moments? And what does Carl Cannon say about each of them? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Time now … for the losers. Time to hear from presidential candidates who ran for the White House – and lost … and the reasons they gave for losing. Like Democrat John Kerry after the 2004 election Fear and the war were shoved at America in an exploited way that made it very difficult for people to get out from under that 9-11. And when Osama bin Laden appeared on the Friday before the election in that tape, it shifted the last days of that election. And Republican George Bush after the 1992 election: I think by beating back against tremendous odds, some lousy legislation, we ended up with getting good legislation. I'm afraid in the campaign, in the process, we were accused of being against people because of having to take a stand for fiscal responsibility Losing a presidential election is back in the news. In September 2025, Kamala Harris will publish a memoir on her losing run for the White House in 2024.   Which makes this the perfect time to hear other presidential candidates explain why they lost.   What do they say about losing? What went wrong? Why failure? Who's to blame? – And -- is it ever the losers' fault?   Find out in the latest episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly" — when we hear exclusively from just one group of people — the losers.   Find C-SPAN's "The Weekly" wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Can you imagine a time when Democrats and Republicans in Congress not only voted the same way — but said the same thing? It actually did happen — right after the terror attacks of 9/11 "Today, we join together not as Democrats nor Republicans, but Mr. Speaker, as proud Americans prepared to defend freedom as our forebears did before us." That was House Democratic Minority Whip David Bonior — September 14th, 2001 ... and from that same day, here's Congressman Jerry Lewis — a Republican: There is no party. My colleague, Jack Murtha and I working on this Committee on Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, know the importance of national strength. But when our people come together, there is no Democrat, there is no Republican. We are the American people. What was the specific legislation Congress was considering that inspired such bipartisan rhetoric? Who else — in both the House and the Senate — used that identicial rhetorical construct - "We are not Democrats or Republicans. We are Americans." And what did Democrats in Congress say about Republican President George W. Bush that day in Congress — three days after the terror attacks. Find out in the special 9/11 anniversary episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On August 30th, 2025, Mark Knoller, the legendary, long-time member of the White House press corps, died. In tribute, the latest episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly" is all about Mark Knoller — his decades of appearances — and mentions — on C-SPAN. Like this: TONY SNOW: "Knoller — have you had family over to the White House?" MARK KNOLLER: "A couple of years ago I brought my mom to the Christmas reception. It blew her mind. She was really awestruck by it." TONY SNOW: "What did you do?" MARK KNOLLER: "She got to meet the president. The president noted I brought my mom. And we've heard the president speak about his mom, And his relationship with him mom. As we walked away from getting our picture taken, he pointed at my mom and gave me a thumbs up." That was February 20th, 2007... Mark Knoller's birthday. He was on a panel discussing the White House press corps. But in a twist, the panel moderator, the one asking the questions, was then-press secretary to President George W. Bush — Tony Snow. What stories did Mark Knoller tell on C-SPAN about his decades covering the White House? What did fellow reporters say about him? What did Presidents say to him? And what was his single greatest contribution to modern day White House history and the presidency? Find out in the latest episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly" — as we remember Mark Knoller. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Did you have a lovely summer vacation? Was it long enough? Sad it's over? You know who once had a nice, long, summer vacation? That's right — President Dwight D. Eisenhower! The president's Colorado vacation draws to a close. But the chief executive doesn't seem to mind as long as they keep fighting this a-way. He hooks a beauty — which gives him a nice fight before being hauled in by the hand of an experienced angler. It's a far cry from this peaceful setting to the cares of state which await him. But when you can catch your legal limit in one morning It makes even a presidential vacation perfect October 1955. ... A newsreel reports on President Eisenhower fishing in Colorado. The newsreel shows the President knee deep in water ... a fishing rod ... And a fish! For President Eisenhower, it was the enjoyable end to a summer vacation that lasted — get this — six weeks! • Whatever happened to Presidents taking six-week-long vacations? • Where do Presidents go now — and for how long? • Which presidents golf… And which don't? • And what do Presidents tell the public about their vacations? In the latest episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly" — we find out! ... While you're returning from your vacations, we hear Presidents talking about their own vacations — and then we talk about the clips with a special guest ... America's foremost political junkie and top presidential observer ... You know him as editor of National Journal's Hotline — and you've seen and heard him on C-SPAN many times — and now he's on "The Weekly" ... Talking about the history of presidential vacations — it's Kirk Bado! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Think you know everything there is to know about Warren Buffett? You likely know how he got wealthy as CEO and chairman of Berkshire Hathaway.... And you probably know his support for Democratic Party politicians, like Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama. .. And you might also remember President Obama giving him a Medal of Freedom. But did you know this: Warren Buffett's father was ... a member of Congress. Warren Buffett recently announced he's stepping down from Berkshire Hathaway. And that's what inspires this week's episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly." But instead of using that news to reflect on Warren Buffett's own connection to politics-- we focus on someone else: His father. What did Warren Buffett have to say about his father — a Republican congressman? What did Doris Buffett — Warren's sister — also say about Howard Buffett? And what did Howard Buffett say in Congress — at the height of the Cold War? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

 We hear all the time from politicians talking about how to reduce the deficit and the debt.But have you ever heard a politician talk about how to spend a surplus.Believe it or not, that did happen.   It is now official and I'm proud to announce that we posted a budget surplus of $123 billion -- the largest surplus in American history. And in the last two years alone, we have paid down our nation's debt by $140 billion -- the largest debt reduction in our nation's history. We have closed the book on deficits and open the door on a new era of economic opportunity.     That was President Bill Clinton ... October 27th, 1999Ever wonder what it sounds like when the government has more money than it spends?And then - politicians come up with ideas for how to spend that extra money?And then - those ideas lead to angry arguments about how to spend that money -- arguments that kind of sound like what we hear now, but in reverse?Then this week's episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly" is just the thing for you.Because that's exactly what you'll hear.No, these aren't fake AI-generated hallucinations. Yes, it really did happen —  actual real politicians saying real things about a real budget surplus...  The year was 1999 ... a year politicians fought over not how to cut the deficit and debt — but how to spend the surplus.Find C-SPAN's "The Weekly" wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The House parliamentarian.  The C-SPAN audience knows the parliamentarian from House rules and procedures and various parliamentary inquiries and interruptions… But what about the personal side of the job?  …. The unrivaled opportunity to see Congress history up close and personal – watching it all from the front, facing the chamber, and seeing all the faces…  What's that like? In the latest episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly," we find out. We talk with former House parliamentarian Tom Wickham .. His career in Congress spanned over a quarter century.  And during that time, from his front row seat, Tom Wickham witnessed first-hand some of the most dramatic and iconic moments in House history. Tom Wickham left Congress in 2020. He's now Vice President at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. And now – Tom Wickham is back on C-SPAN! He's picked the five most memorable moments he experienced as House parliamentarian — and he reveals that list in "The Weekly." What are Tom Wickham's five most memorable House moments — and why? Go behind the scenes and find out — in the latest episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly" — with Tom Wickham. Find C-SPAN's "The Weekly" wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

 The House of Representatives … October 10th, 1998, … A Republican Congressman from Florida rises and makes remarks about a bill he's introducing:   In the closing days of World War II, the U.S.S. Indianapolis had its hull pierced by three Japanese torpedoes. Twelve minutes later the cruiser went down. On board were almost 1,200 crew members and only 300 survived, the others dying of shark attacks and exposure. For half a century, the 316 remaining surviving crew members of the worst disaster in Naval history tried in vain to defend the honor of their captain, Charles McVay. This year a new secret weapon was employed in their quest, and that weapon was a 13-year-old boy named Hunter Scott    Who was that? That was former representative Joe Scarborough. His mention of the U.S.S. Indianapolis might sound familiar –The story of its sinking by a sub was shared in that speech by Congressman Scarborough – and in a stirring soliloquy from a salty seasoned shark hunter in Steven Spielberg's seminal Seventies summer spectacular, Jaws. But the mention of Hunter Scott might be new to you. Who's Hunter Scott? Why did Joe Scarborough call him "a secret weapon"? And how did they take on the U.S. Navy together to change history – and win? Find out in this week's episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly" – as we mark the 50th anniversary of the blockbuster movie "Jaws" … Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You probably saw video of Republican Senator Joni Ernst recently telling an Iowa town hall: "We're all going to die." And you probably saw the ensuing Democratic outrage. But do you remember who said this? "It says that eventually we are all going to die!" "Under the Clinton health plan? You mean after Bill and Hillary put all those new bureaucrats and taxes on us; we're still all going to die?" That was Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton. When did they say that? Where did they say that? And – maybe most important -- Why did they say that? Plus: Which other politicians have publicly suggested "We're all going to die?" Find out in this week's episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly." Find C-SPAN's "The Weekly" wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Peace through strength" — it's a phrase heard frequently after the U.S. attack on Iran's nuclear facilities. These days, "peace through strength" has become associated with President Donald Trump. But an earlier President also famously embraced the doctrine of "Peace through Strength." Happy Thanksgiving as well to Captain Pat Hannifin and all of the sailors aboard the USS Ronald Reagan. Great ship. Your ship's motto is one that we embrace every day: "Peace Through Strength". That's what the motto is, and we have that motto at home. Everywhere the Seventh Fleet sails, the USS Ronald Reagan is an enduring symbol of American might, American strength, American power and, really, American goodness, in so many ways.  That was President Trump on Thanksgiving in 2018.  Speaking to the crew aboard the USS Ronald Reagan — and noting the ship's motto — "Peace Through Strength." What is the history of the USS Ronald Reagan? How did "Peace Through Strength" become associated with the Nimitz-class nuclear powered aircraft carrier? And which other presidents and politicians have cited "Peace Through Strength" when talking about the USS Ronald Reagan? Find out in the latest episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly." Find C-SPAN's "The Weekly" wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The U.S. Supreme Court just ended its 2024-2025 term. And along with issuing big decisions in big cases — they also had — in some oral arguments — big laughs. So, time now for our annual end-of-term Supreme Court comedy festival! Hear the top 8 laugh lines from this Supreme Court term – then find out why they were funny — then, find out how they could have been made even funnier still — Then, hear the jokes ranked. How are we going to pull of this daunting comedy feat? Simple: we'll be joined a very special guest — an actual comedy professional - to walk us through all this year's SCOTUS humor. It's legendary — and hilarious — comedy writer, Jon Macks. You've heard Jon Macks' work on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno," the Academy Awards – and his jokes told by Chris Rock, Billy Crystal, Steve Martin, Martin Short, Ricky Gervais … and, over the years, by many, many politicians. And now you can hear him in this week's episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly." • What got big Supreme Court laughs this term – and why? • What does Jon Macks think of the jokes – rated and ranked? • Would the joke have worked at a comedy club? • And how would Jon Macks have told the joke if he were a Justice on the Supreme Court? Find out in "The Weekly." So - throw your head back and roar in laughter with Supreme Court justices — and find C-SPAN's "The Weekly" wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's the Fourth of July! Which makes now the perfect time to remember this Republican congressman from New York: "Rep. Felix Grucci from New York's 1st district. We probably don't have many fireworks company presidents in Congress. That's how some people might know your name. Tell us about the family business." "Well, the family business is one hundred twenty-five years old and it's been a family business. We've been lighting up the skies and delivering the ooh's and the ah's to millions of people not only around the country but around the world. We've done the last five with presidential inaugural, the Brooklyn Bridge centennial, Statue of Liberty and the most recent is the millennium moment here in Washington when we lit up the skies of both the Washington Monument and the reflecting pool and the Lincoln Memorial. It was quite an exciting evening." That was freshman Congressman Felix Grucci on C-SPAN in November 2000. How long did Representative Grucci last in Congress? And why think of him during the Fourth of July Weekend? Find out in the latest episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly." Find C-SPAN's "The Weekly" wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Time capsules! America is full of them ... and for America 250, Congress is even creating a new one. For this year's Fourth of July holiday, C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly" presents a time capsule of its own. The contents: What American presidents have said about time capsules — or even put in time capsules. Like pictures of themselves. Here's what Senate historian Don Ritchie once told C-SPAN: "I was present in 1976 when we actually opened a safe that was essentially a time capsule that had given to the government in 1876. And President Ford came to the Capitol just before the Bicentennial, and opened the safe, we had no idea what was inside, there were pictures of Rutherford B. Hayes and his wife and other items that were donated at the time of the first centennial." Which other presidents have included pictures of themselves in time capsules? And what else have they put in? Find out in C-SPAN's "The Weekly." Because if you're celebrating the Fourth of July — and gearing up for America 250 — you'll want to hear all about American history, the American presidency — and time capsules. Find C-SPAN's "The Weekly" wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

William F. Buckley, Jr. The conservative icon died in February 2008 — but in 2025, he's back in the news. • In March, the U.S. Postal Service announced a new stamp with his picture • In June, a new biography, "Buckley: The Life and the Revolution That Changed America," was published • And in November, it would have been Bill Buckley's 100th birthday Over the years, members of Congress cited Bill Buckley and told stories about Bill Buckley ... and celebrated him after his death. Like this future Vice President: He led in a manner that earned both the respect and the friendship of his political adversaries. William F. Buckley, from his many years on television, the program, Firing Line, which was the longest running political television program in the history of American television, he demonstrated that wit and sharpness and civility can all go together, and it is a lesson that I suspect many of us on an ongoing basis can continue to learn and apply in the institutions of our government. That was Republican Congressman from Indiana, Mike Pence — April 23rd, 2008. But it wasn't just Republicans who praised and quoted William F. Buckley over the years on the floor of Congress. Democrats, too. Who were they? What did they say? And what stories about Bill Buckley did members of Congress like to tell? Find out in the latest episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly." Find C-SPAN's "The Weekly" wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There's a big parade planned in Washington, DC for Saturday, June 14th, 2025. It's Flag Day — It's the 250th Anniversary of the U.S. Army — and it's President Trump's birthday — his 79th. Speaking at West Point five years ago, President Trump noted the calendar coincidence. Tomorrow America will celebrate a very important anniversary: the 245th birthday of the United States Army. Unrelated, going to be my birthday also. I don't know if that happened by accident. Did that happen by accident, please? But it's a great day because of that Army birthday. Donald Trump's and the Army's birthdays falling on the same day isn't the only fun fact about presidents and birthdays. In fact, there are 10 ten fun facts about presidents and birthdays you might not have known. Can you name all ten? If you can't, don't fret. They're all in this week's episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly." Find C-SPAN's "The Weekly" wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Elon Musk is ending active involvement in the Trump administration and DOGE... His relationship with President Trump as a senior advisor and special government employee has been well documented… So has the billionaire's founding and serving as CEO of several companies…But Elon Musk isn't the only famous CEO who's had connections to presidents. In this week's episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly," learn what other top-shelf CEOs have said about presidents they've supported or advised or even opposed. And hear stories from their involvement in politics. As we talk with the author who literally wrote the book on the subject. Dr. Tevi Troy. His book: "The Power and the Money: The Epic Clashes Between Commanders in Chief and Titans of Industry." You'll hear clips from six celebrity CEO's who have appeared on C-SPAN – and then – against the backdrop of Elon Musk and Donald Trump -- Tevi Troy will tell us about their relationships with presidents. Who are the six celebrity CEOs? And what does Tevi Troy say about each of them? Find out in "The Weekly." Find C-SPAN's "The Weekly" wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Live, gavel-to-gavel coverage of the U.S. Senate floor. It began 39 years ago -- June 2nd, 1986 – Day One of C-SPAN2. Here's one of the first things heard that first day of Senate TV: "Today begins the video history book. No longer will the great debates in this Chamber be lost forever. What a thrill it would be to watch Henry Clay, John Calhoun, or Daniel Webster in action. Of course, there were no cameras or tape recorders rolling when those congressional giants spoke. But sadly, the sights and sounds of great debates featuring such legends as Everett Dirksen, Lyndon Johnson, Hubert Humphrey, and Howard Baker, men who lived during the age of radio and television, were also lost forever. Now, future generations can have the opportunity to watch history in the making, thanks to videotape. So there are a number of good things about to happen." That was Republican Majority Leader Bob Dole. In a few days: the 39th anniversary of live, gavel-to-gavel television coverage of the U.S. Senate floor... Bob Dole listed several lions of the Senate ... In this week's episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly" — we hear from other lions of the Senate — lions of the Senate press corps ... three top Senate observers pick their favorite moments from 39 years of the Senate on TV. Our three special guests: • Carl Hulse of the New York Times • Paul Kane of the Washington Post • Chad Pergram of Fox News Which favorite moments did they pick – and why? And what big moments from Senate history before there was TV do they wish they could have witnessed? Find out in "The Weekly." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

50 years ago, the Vietnam War ended.. The South Vietnamese capital of Saigon fell to the North Vietnamese Army…. North Vietnam achieved its objective of reunifying Vietnam under communist rule.... There were 58,220 U.S. military fatalities …. America effectively lost the Vietnam War.... "It was a sad day to sit in the Oval Office and see on television the American troops being literally kicked off of an American embassy before it surrendered. I hope no American president goes through that experience again." That was Gerald Ford on C-SPAN in 1998… On April 29th 1975, as President, Gerald Ford told America about the fall of Saigon: "This action closes a chapter in the American experience." Since then, new chapters have opened in the American experience with Vietnam .... For this year's Memorial Day, this week's episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly" observes America's relationship with Vietnam changing in the 50 years since the fall of Saigon ... and we do so by checking in with a President every ten years after 1975. How has American policy toward Vietnam changed over 50 years? And how has American presidential language about Vietnam and the War changed? This Memorial Day, find out in C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly." Find C-SPAN's "The Weekly" wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

 Ah -- Romance is in the air. And by romance in the air – we mean Governors giving their annual state of the state addresses and budget speeches in front of state legislatures. Like Tony Evers. Here's what the Wisconsin Governor said during his 2025 state of the state address:    “My forever prom date, Kathy, is up in the gallery, as well. Kathleen Frances, you are the cream to fill my cream puff.”   In the next episode of C-SPAN's podcast “The Weekly” – we hear more governors say more lovely things about their spouses – just like Governor Evers did.   • How long has Kathleen Frances Evers been the cream to fill Governor Tony Evers' cream puff?   • Which Governor revealed a – shhhh -- bedroom secret?   • And which Governor not only said something lovely about her husband – but then said something lovely about her in-laws?   Find out in “The Weekly” – as we present the loveliest things governors said about their spouses in 2025 State of the State addresses. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices