C-SPAN Radio - Washington Today

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Catch up on the stories of the day in Washington, DC. Hear portions of key events and interviews with journalists who provide background and perspective. Programs posted after 6pm ET, Monday - Friday.

C-SPAN


    • Apr 11, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • daily NEW EPISODES
    • 47m AVG DURATION
    • 1,382 EPISODES

    Ivy Insights

    The C-SPAN Radio - Washington Today podcast is a steadfast and objective source of news that delivers information in a plain and straightforward manner. The hosts do an excellent job of giving both sides equal time and opportunity to present their arguments, making it a great podcast for those interested in hearing politicians talk about policy. I appreciate the lack of analysis by the hosts, allowing listeners to form their own opinions based on the reported facts. The only complaint I have is regarding the sound levels, which could use some engineering improvement.

    One of the best aspects of this podcast is the unbiased and objective coverage it provides of what is happening in our federal government and national politics. In a time where most news organizations are filled with biased punditry and sensationalism, C-SPAN remains a bastion of neutrality. It is refreshing to have a news source that presents facts, includes all viewpoints, and allows individuals to express their opinions without interference or manipulation.

    On the downside, there are some technical issues with the podcast. The host often trips over words while reading from the teleprompter, which can be a bit distracting. Additionally, there are times when updates stop without any explanation or response from the main site. This lack of consistency in updates can be frustrating for regular listeners who rely on a consistent schedule.

    In conclusion, The C-SPAN Radio - Washington Today podcast is an invaluable resource for anyone seeking unbiased and objective news coverage of our federal government and national politics. Despite some technical issues and inconsistent updates, it remains one of the best political podcasts available. Thank you to C-SPAN for providing such valuable content that helps us understand different viewpoints and encourages democratic discourse during these dark times for our nation.



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    Latest episodes from C-SPAN Radio - Washington Today

    The Weekly: Iran Conflict, Melania Trump Speaks Out, Oil Near $100

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 11, 2026 36:21


    The war involving Iran dominates the week, as tensions rise and a fragile ceasefire is tested. Melania Trump delivers rare public remarks drawing attention in Washington, while oil prices climb near $100 a barrel amid growing global uncertainty. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Weekend Edition: Latest in Iran and Ceasefire, NATO Sec. Gen. Rutte's Visit to D.C., and Pentagon's $200B Funding Request

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 11, 2026 28:48


    In this weekend's episode, three segments from this past week's Washington Journal. First: A discussion about the latest in Iran including the two-week ceasefire and efforts to negotiate a peace deal, with Behnam Ben Taleblu of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. Then: Sophia Besch of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, discusses NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte's visit to Washington and President Trump's threats to leave NATO. And finally: Breaking Defense's Ashley Roque discusses the cost of the U.S.-Israeli war in Iran and the Pentagon's $200B funding request. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    VP Vance warns Iran not to 'play' the U.S. ahead of peace talks; Pres. Trump's latest global tariffs challenged at U.S. Court of Int'l Trade

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2026 59:41


    Vice President JD Vance warns Iran not to 'play' the U.S. ahead of talks in Pakistan to end the war. He says, 'If the Iranians are willing to negotiate in good faith, we're certainly willing to extend the open hand'; Iran's Parliament Speaker says Israel must stop bombing Lebanon before negotiations begin; former Vice President Kamala Harris says what she calls President Trump's 'war of choice' with Iran will cause long-term damage to the U.S. She also says she is considering running for president again in 2028; President Donald Trump's latest 10% global tariffs are challenged before the U.S. Court of International Trade. We will talk about it with Reuters reporter Dietrich Knauth (25); Top Senate Republicans meet with President Trump on a plan to fund immigration enforcement within the still-closed Department of Homeland Security with only Republican votes; California's Attorney General Rob Bonta announces a major operation to prosecute health care fraud; Artemis II moon mission crew returns to Earth tonight; former Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY) has died. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    NATO Sec. Gen. Rutte says he sensed Pres. Trump's disappointment over allies response to Iran War; First Lady Melania Trump criticizes 'lies linking me to the disgraceful Jeffrey Epstein'

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2026 59:26


    NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte says he sensed President Donald Trump's disappointment with European allies who were not helping at the start of the war with Iran, but he insists they are stepping up now, especially to safeguard the Strait of Hormuz, which is still effectively closed by Iran as they claim Israeli violations of the current ceasefire. General Rutte also says, 'Let me be clear: This alliance is not whistling past the graveyard as you would say in the United States'; U.S. House Democrats try to pass a War Powers Resolution to stop President Trump from waging war on Iran with Congressional authorization, but a Republican presiding over the brief House session does not recognize them to make the motion; IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva says the Iran war will mean the IMF will downgrade its forecast for the world economy; First Lady Melania Trump criticizes what she calls “lies linking me to the disgraceful Jeffrey Epstein”, the late convicted sex offender; Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor is asked by a University of Alabama Law School student about bridging political divides with other justices; Gov. Wes Moore (D-MD) takes part in Rev. Al Sharpton's National Action Network conference in New York City; NASA expresses confidence in the Artemis II moon mission capsule heat shield that will allow the crew of four to land back safely on Earth Friday night. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Iran War ceasefire tested by disagreements over whether Lebanon is covered. Iran says it is closing Strait of Hormuz again.

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2026 60:05


    Challenges on the first full day of the Iran War two week ceasefire with the White House & Iran disagreeing over whether Israel's war with Hezbollah in Lebanon is covered, and if in fact, as Iranian state media claims, Iran has closed the strategic Strait of Hormuz to commercial ships because Israel is still fighting in Lebanon; Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth says the U.S. has secured an 'historic and overwhelming victory' over Iran, while Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) calls President Donald Trump a 'military moron' and says Democrats will force a vote on a War Powers Resolution next week 'to end this war for good'; Republican Clay Fuller wins easily in the Georgia 14th Congressional District special election runoff and thanks President Trump for the victory; Political activist Ralph Nader helps organize a symposium on impeaching President Trump; Artemis II moon mission astronauts are two days away from Earth splashdown; National Capital Planning Commission hears a proposal to spruce up Pennsylvania Avenue between the White House and Capitol Building in Washington, DC. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    President Trump posts concerning his threatened attack on Iran, 'a whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back'

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2026 60:47


    President Donald Trump posts ahead of his threatened deadline to Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face attacks on electrical infrastructure and bridges, 'a whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again. I don't want that to happen, but it probably will'; China & Russia veto a United Nations Security Council resolution on the Strait of Hormuz, sponsored by Bahrain and supported by the U.S., because, China & Russia say, it blames Iran for closing the strait to commercial shipping but not the U.S. & Israel for starting the war; Artemis II astronauts speak to NASA scientists on their way back to Earth about what they saw when they flew around the moon; Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin visits western North Carolina to discuss FEMA's work to help the area recover from recent hurricanes; Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche says at his first news conference since replacing Pam Bondi that accusations the Trump administration is weaponizing the Justice Department are 'completely false'; Vice President JD Vance campaigns in Budapest for Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's reelection, and President Trump calls into the rally. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    President Trump shares details of servicemember's rescue and threatens Iran's infrastructure

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 6, 2026 40:17


    President Trump shares details of servicemember's rescue and threatens Iran's infrastructure. Artemis II astronauts break the record for farthest human travel away from Earth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Weekend Edition: President Trump's Address to the Nation, Artemis II Launch, and Impact of President Trump's Tariffs Agenda

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 4, 2026 27:45


    In this weekend's episode, we're featuring three segments from this past week's Washington Journal. First: We hear from Global Affairs Journalist Elise Labott on President Trump's address to the nation Thursday night on Iran – and what she's watching in the days ahead as the conflict continues. Then: we look to the skies with Space journalist Kristin Fisher on the future of space exploration with this week's launch of the Artemis II manned rocket. Finally, it's been a year since President Trump announced his "Liberation Day" tariffs. We take a closer look at the impact of the President's tariffs agenda on the economy with Jeff Ferry of the Coalition for a Prosperous America and Michael Negron of the Center for American Progress. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    American fighter jet is shot down over Iran, one crewmember still missing; March jobs report stronger than expected

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2026 58:45


    An American fighter jet shot down over Iran, two crewmembers ejecting, one safely rescued by U.S. forces, and the search continues for the other; President Donald Trump proposed a federal budget for next year that include a 42% increase in defense spending, to $1.5 trillion; Labor Department says the U.S. created 178,000 jobs in March, and the unemployment rate ticked lower to 4.3%.  but are their warning signs due to the war with Iran? We will talk with MarketWatch Economics Editor Greg Robb (10); NASA gives a status report on the Artemis II mission to the moon; Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche talks about taking over as acting Attorney General when Pam Bondi leaves; debate for a seat on the Wisconsin Supreme Court; America250 Chair Rosie Rios on latest events to celebrate the nation's semiquincentennial; On this Good Friday before Easter Sunday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt talks about the importance of her faith, and that of others work in the White House. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Attorney General Pam Bondi ousted; White House ballroom project approved; UN Secretary General Gutteres warns world is 'on the edge of wider war'

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2026 57:49


    President Donald Trump says Attorney General Pam Bondi will be leaving the Justice Department to take a position in the private sector, and will be replaced on an interim basis by Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche; A day after President Trump's primetime speech on the war with Iran, during which he said the U.S. & Israel will "hit them extremely hard over the next two to three weeks….We're going to bring them back to the Stone Ages, where they belong,” United Nations Secretary General Antonio Gutteres warns the world is “on the edge of a wider war.” We will talk about where the war with Iran stands with Elise Labott, founder of 'Cosmopolitics' Substack Founder (16); Senate passes an agreement to end the Homeland Security Department shutdown, but the House does not, so the partial government shutdown will extend into next week; National Capital Planning Commission gives final approval to his plans to build a 1,000 seat White House ballroom where the East Wing used to be; Labor Department publishes a rule to implement the President's proposal to allow 401(k) retirement plans to contain alternative assets, like cryptocurrency and private equity. We will talk with Brett Samuels, Bloomberg Law retirement benefits reporter (44); Health & Human Services Department puts microplastics and pharmaceuticals on the draft list of drinking water contaminants kept by the Environmental Protection Agency. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    President Trump attends Supreme Court case challenging his Executive Order ending birthright citizenship

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2026 57:38


    Supreme Court hears a challenge to President Donald Trump's Executive Order ending birthright citizenship under the 14th Amendment to the Constitution and President Trump attends, a first for a sitting president. We will hear some of the oral argument and talk about the case with USA Today White House Correspondent Bart Jansen (9); President Trump is giving a primetime address tonight on the war with Iran after telling reporters he expects the war to end in two to three weeks; British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is asked about President Trump saying he is considering withdrawing the U.S. from NATO after European allies have not shown an eagerness to force Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz to allow oil tankers to pass; Vice President JD Vance, chair of the new anti-fraud task force swears-in Colin McDonald, Assistant Attorney General in charge of the new fraud enforcement division at the Justice Department; NASA gets ready to launch the Artemis II mission sending four astronauts around the moon, the first time humans have gotten that close to the moon in 50 years; Passover holiday message from U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Supreme Court strikes down Colorado's ban on 'conversation therapy' for LGBTQ+ children

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2026 61:00


    Supreme Court strikes down a Colorado law that banned 'conversation therapy' for LGBTQ+ children. We will talk about the decision with The Hill's Supreme Court reporter Zach Schonfeld (1); Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth says the role of the U.S. military in Iran is to 'negotiate with bombs' and 'ensure that we compel' the current regime to realize it is 'in a better place if they make that deal" to end the war; President Donald Trump posts that countries not able to get oil due to Iran closing the Strait of Hormuz should buy it from the U.S. or "build up some delayed courage" and fight for it; United Nations Security Council holds an emergency meeting after three UN peacekeepers are killed in southern Lebanon, amid the military conflict between Israel & Hezbollah; Federal judge rules President Trump's White House ballroom construction must stop without Congressional approval; U.S. Homeland Security Department is still shutdown, now at a record 46 days; Interior Secretary Doug Burgum convenes the Endangered Species Committee for the first time in 30 years to approve a national security exemption to the Endangered Species Act for oil & gas drilling in the Gulf of Mexico; one day until NASA launches the Artemis II moon mission; former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) is honored by her original home state of Maryland. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    U.S.-Iran Tensions, Rising Oil and Gas Prices, TSA Pay Restored, DHS Funding Stalled

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2026 36:49


    The situation in the Middle East has ramped up over the past few days as reports emerged that the U.S. may escalate the conflict in Iran with ground troops…. Meanwhile, over the weekend President Trump said there has been progress in talks with Iran…but that he wanted to QUOTE take the oil there if those talks don't pan out… Oil prices rose today to as much as $116 a barrel after that comment…. The average US gas price according to AAA—3 dollars and 99 cents a gallon… That's the highest since 2022…. Americans are finding some relief at the airport…As security wait times have begun to ease as TSA employees are now receiving paychecks… But, with Congress on its two week Easter/Passover break, there is still no long term funding deal in sight for the Homeland Security Department… Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    The Weekly: Iran Conflict, DHS Funding Vote, and House Ethics Findings

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 28, 2026 21:29


    Welcome to The Weekly — a look at the stories shaping the weekend's conversation around Washington. This week, the war in Iran continues to dominate the global stage — now stretching into another week of escalating tensions as U.S. officials weigh strategy. In the early morning hours on Friday, the Senate passed a measure to fund key parts of the Department of Homeland Security — a move aimed at easing disruptions at airports and getting some federal workers back on track. And on Capitol Hill, a development from the House Ethics Committee with its finding 25 out of 27 allegations against Florida Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick substantiated, putting her political future in question. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Weekend Edition: Iran, Cuba, & CPAC

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 28, 2026 23:17


    In this weekend's episode, three segments from this past week's Washington Journal. First: We speak with Representative Adam Smith -- top Democrat on the Armed Services Committee -- about ongoing conflict in Iran – now nearing the one-month mark. Then: we turn our attention to another global hotspot: CUBA – and President Trump's continued threats targeting the leadership of THAT country. We speak with Cuba expert Professor William LeoGrande from American University about what he's watching. Then: As the annual Conservative Political Action Committee convention continues this weekend, HENRY OLSEN – podcast host and Senior Fellow with the Ethics and Public Policy Center -- discusses how the Republican party is reacting to U.S. involvement in Iran – and what it could mean for upcoming midterms. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    House Republicans reject bipartisan Senate-passed DHS funding bill to end partial gov't shutdown, push alternative that keeps funded immigration enforcement

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2026 58:33


    Partial government shutdown of the Homeland Security Department will continue for the time being, as House Republicans reject the bipartisan bill the Senate passed Thursday night to fund most of the agencies in the department except immigration enforcement, which has been the focus of the dispute between Republicans and Democrats, and instead are moving ahead with a separate bill to fund the entire department for eight weeks, including immigration enforcement; President Donald Trump speaks to farmers on the South Lawn of the White House, touting his agenda he says has helped them, including $12 billion in direct aid he says comes from tariff revenue; Secretary of State Marco Rubio talks about the war in Iran and peace negotiations with his G7 counterparts at a ministerial meeting in France; We will talk about the state of the Iran war, about to hit the one month mark, with Elise Labott, 'Cosmopolitics' Substack Founder (22); Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) introduces a bill to codify the roles of women in combat, as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has reportedly ordered a review of the policy's military effectiveness; Vice President JD Vance holds the first meeting of the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, which he chairs; actress and activist Jane Fonda speaks at a protest against Trump Administration policies on freedom of expression outside the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Senate GOP give Senate Dems 'last & final' offer to reopen Homeland Security Dept.; Pres. Trump says Iran 'begging' to make deal to end war

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 26, 2026 59:15


    Senate Republicans present Senate Democrats what they call a 'last and final' offer to reopen the Homeland Security Department, now shut for 41 days, and fund FEMA & TSA, paying government workers again, and hopefully alleviating hours-long airport security lines. Democrats have been holding out until federal immigration enforcement reforms are included; Senate Democrats block a Republican-sponsored amendment to require voters show a photo ID to cast a ballot in federal elections. This is part of the larger debate on a bill that also includes a requirement to prove U.S. citizenship to register to vote; President Donald Trump says Iran is begging to make a deal to end the war with the U.S. & Israel; House Ethics Committee holds a rare public hearing in the case of Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) who is accused of using millions of dollars of Federal Emergency Management Agency money mistakenly sent to her family's health care company to run for Congress; New York Attorney General Letitia James (D) speaks on this Equal Pay Day, which represents how far into the new year a woman must work to earn what men earned, on average, the previous year; International Olympic Committee bans transgender athletes starting with the 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles; Gov. Wes Moore (D-MD) speaks at a ceremony on this second anniversary of the Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    White House disputes Iranian state TV's claim that Iran rejected U.S. peace plan; Meta & YouTube found liable in social media addiction trial

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2026 59:26


    White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt says the U.S. military operation against Iran is ahead of schedule and dismisses Iranian state TV reporting Iran has rejected a U.S.-proposed 15-point peace plan; Senate Democrats present another counteroffer, immediately rejected by Republicans, to reopen the shuttered Homeland Security Department… which has been closed for 40 days due to ongoing disagreements over whether and how Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) should be reformed; TSA Acting Administrator talks about the hardships of unpaid TSA officers due to the shutdown and of travelers stuck in long airport security screening lines; Jury finds social media company Meta & video streaming service YouTube liable for harming a young user with design features that were addictive and led to her mental health distress; First Lady Melania Trump is introduced by a humanoid robot at her Fostering the Future Together Global Coalition Summit; Supreme Court hears a case about worker rights, asking if a delivery driver who delivers that travel in interstate commerce but who does cross the border himself or interact with vehicles which do is subject to or exempt from a federal arbitration law. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Pres. Trump says Iran 'talking sense' in talks to end war; DHS Sec. Mullin sworn-in; Possible deal to reopen most of DHS, fund TSA; House passes pro boxing reform

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 24, 2026 57:41


    President Donald Trump says negotiations to end the Iran war are happening 'right now' and Iran is 'talking sense', and 'They've agreed…(t)hey will never have a nuclear weapon.' Iran denies there are any talks; A possible deal is emerging to end the Homeland Security Department shutdown by funding most of the department, including the Transportation Security Administration, whose agents have going without pay, many not showing up for work, leading to long security lines at airports. The deal will not fund ICE enforcement and removal operations, whose possible reform is an area of disagreement between Democrats & Republicans; Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin takes the oath of office at a White House ceremony with President Trump; Gov. Kevin Stitt (R-OK) appoints energy executive Alan Armstrong to fill the U.S. Senate seat vacated by Markwayne Mullin; Supreme Court hears a challenge a proposed revival of a Trump Administration policy of not accepting asylum claims of migrants at the southern border when the lines get too long because they have not 'arrived in the U.S.,' as the law requires; House passes a federal boxing bill named for Muhammad Ali. We will talk about it with Professor Michael McCann, director of the Sports & Entertainment Law Institute at the University of New Hampshire (41); NASA Admin. Jared Isaacman changes some plans for the return to the moon, saying instead of a space station in lunar orbit, the goal is to build a permanent moon base. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Trump Delays Iran Strikes as DHS Shutdown Disrupts Travel and Senate Advances Mullin Nomination

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 23, 2026 49:14


    President Trump says he is holding off, for now, on strikes against Iran's power plants and other energy infrastructure, after what he called weekend contacts that revealed “major points of agreement.” Iran's foreign ministry is disputing that account, saying there has been no dialogue with the United States. Here at home, the partial Homeland Security shutdown is taking a bigger toll on travelers. TSA staffing shortages have led to major airport delays, with screeners working without pay for more than a month, and the administration is now deploying ICE officers to help manage lines and check IDs at some airports. We'll also have the latest on the deadly crash at New York's LaGuardia Airport, where an Air Canada Express regional jet collided with a fire truck, killing both pilots and injuring dozens of others. On Capitol Hill, there are still few signs of a breakthrough to fully reopen Homeland Security, even as the Senate moves toward a final vote on President Trump's nomination of Oklahoma Republican Senator Markwayne Mullin to lead the department. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    The Weekly: Iran War Dominates Washington as DHS Pick Faces Scrutiny and SAVE Act Advances

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 21, 2026 40:49


    This week, the war in Iran dominated the conversation, as the Pentagon asked for billions more in funding and lawmakers on both sides of the aisle questioned the cost — and the path forward. Back home, the spotlight turns to the Department of Homeland Security, where the President's nominee to lead the agency faced scrutiny on Capitol Hill amid heightened concerns over border security and national preparedness. And on the legislative front, an elections bill takes center stage. The SAVE Act — which would require proof of citizenship to register to vote — has passed the House and is sparking an intense debate in the Senate over voting access and election integrity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Weekend Edition: The War in Iran, Oil and Gas Prices, DHS Partial Shutdown Impact on Air Travel

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 21, 2026 24:47


    In this weekend's episode, three segments from this past week's Washington Journal. First: A discussion with National Security Institute founder and former Bush administration official Jamil Jaffer on the Iran war and potential threats to the homeland as a result. Then, we talk about rising oil and gas prices as the Iran conflict drags on. That conversation with Clay Seigle - a global energy expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. Finally, we check in with Reuters transportation reporter David Shepardson on how the partial homeland security department shutdown – nearly one-month long – is impacting air travel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Pres. Trump says he does not want Iran ceasefire; preview of Congressional votes to reauthorize warrantless wiretap authority; analysis of Nexstar-Tegna media merger

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2026 60:56


    President Donald Trump says he does not want a ceasefire in Iran and is asked about his post that opening the Strait of Hormuz from Iran's blockade is "a simple military maneuver"; Senate votes down for a fifth time a bill to end the partial government shutdown of the Homeland Security Department. Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA) says the two sides are still far apart in finding an agreement to reform federal immigration enforcement procedures; Senate passes a bill to require Members of Congress to go through the same airport security as everyone else. TSA employees have been working without pay during the shutdown, and security lines in some airports are stretching to a more than two hour wait; Congress will soon be voting on whether to reauthorize the FISA Section 702 warrantless surveillance program or let it expire. There is some opposition coming from both sides of the aisle. We will talk about it The Hill's National Security Reporter Rebecca Beitsch (28); U.S. Ambassador to the UN Michael Waltz testifies at a House field hearing at the UN in New York City about the U.S. pulling out of dozens of international organizations; FCC approves Nexstar Media Group's acquisition of Tegna's TV stations, despite a lawsuit from Democratic Attorneys General to try to stop it. We will talk about that with Variety Business Editor Todd Spangler (42); Chuck Norris, martial artist and movie & TV star, has died. Over 30 years ago, he campaigned for a U.S. president's reelection. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Pres. Trump says Israel will not strike more Iranian energy sites; Pentagon to ask for $200 billion war supplemental; Senate cmte approves DHS Sec nominee Mullin

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2026 59:33


    President Donald Trump says he told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu not to strike any more Iranian energy sites after an attack on one led to an Iranian hit on energy infrastructure in Qatar; President Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirm a report that the Administration sent to Congress a request for $200 billion in Iran war supplemental spending; President Trump in a White House meeting with the Japanese Prime Minister, when asked why Japan did not get advanced warning of the U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran, said, "we didn't tell anybody about it because we wanted surprise. Who knows better about surprise than Japan? OK, why didn't you tell me about Pearl Harbor?"; Senate Homeland Security Committee approves the nomination of Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) to be Homeland Security Secretary, by one vote, thanks to Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA); House Oversight Committee Democrats walk out of a closed briefing in the Jeffrey Epstein investigation with Attorney General Pam Bondi after she would not commit to complying with a committee subpoena for a sworn deposition; Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass (D) renames a holiday that had honored the late labor rights leader Cesar Chavez after this week's revelations that he sexually abused young women. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Homeland Security Sec. nominee Sen. Mullin testifies on immigration enforcement; DNI Gabbard testifies on pre-Iran war intel; Fed leaves interest rates unchanged

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2026 59:49


    Senate Homeland Security Committee chair Rand Paul (R-KY) accuses Homeland Security Secretary, Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), of having  'anger issues' and says he will oppose the nomination. Sen. Mullin also testifies about immigration enforcement, striking, as several news outlets put it, a 'milder tone' than his predecessor Kristi Noem on issues such as immigration enforcement. The hearing comes as the Homeland Security Department is still shut down over party disagreements over how to reform Immigration & Customs Enforcement or ICE. We will talk about the latest negotiations with USA Today Congressional Reporter Zach Shermele (17); Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard is asked about President Donald Trump's assessment that Iran posed an imminent threat to the U.S., justifying the war, as she testifies before the Senate Intelligence Committee; Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell announces the Fed will leave interest rates unchanged for a second straight meeting, and says the Iran war's effects on energy prices and inflation is currently uncertain; House votes on a proposed Constitutional Amendment to require a balanced federal budget; Lt. Gov. Julia Stratton (D-IL) wins a contested Democratic primary for U.S. Senator. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Senate starts debate on bill requiring proof of U.S. citizenship to vote; NCTC Dir. resigns over opposition to war with Iran; Irish PM visits DC on St. Patrick's Day

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 17, 2026 59:24


    Senate begins what is expected to be a long, full week of debate on a bill requiring proof of U.S. citizenship to register to vote; Senate Democrats send to the White House their latest offer to reopen the Homeland Security Department; National Counterterrorism Center Director Joe Kent resigns over the war against Iran, telling President Donald Trump Iran did not pose an immediate threat and he was tricked into supporting the war by Israel; U.S. Capitol Police Chief Michael Sullivan testifies before a House subcommittee about a budget increase request in part to handle an increase in threats of violence against Members of Congress; Chief Justice of the United States John Roberts says personal criticism of federal judges is dangerous and “it's got to stop"; Postmaster General David Steiner tells a House subcommittee the Postal Service will run out of cash in one year without Congress loosening its operating regulations; Ireland's Prime Minister, Taoiseach Micheal Martin, visits Washington, DC on this St. Patrick's Day, meeting President Trump in the White House Oval Office and attending a Congressional Friends of Ireland Caucus luncheon in the U.S. Capitol building. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    President Donald Trump criticizes U.S. allies who won't help keep the Strait of Hormuz open

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 16, 2026 47:07


    President Donald Trump criticizes U.S. allies who won't help keep the Strait of Hormuz open. Senate prepares to take up the SAVE Act requiring proof of U.S. citizenship to register to vote. Homeland Security Department shutdown enters its second month. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Weekend Edition: U.S. Israeli Military Operations, James Jacoby "Remaking the Middle East," and Midterm Elections

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 14, 2026 31:01


    In this weekend's episode, three segments from this past week's Washington Journal. First: Retired Brigadier General Mark Kimmitt joins us with a deep dive into U-S and Israeli military operations in Iran – and some of the risks he sees has the conflict continues. Then: Documentary director James Jacoby discusses his PBS Frontline film "Remaking the Middle East" – updated with new information on the Iran war. And Finally: a conversation Charlie Cook – founder of the famed Cook Political Report – with his take on how the midterm elections are shaping up – and how issues like affordability and now the war in Iran – might play in November. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Vice Pres. Vance on reports he was 'skeptical' of war with Iran; Federal judge blocks Justice Dept. subpoenas in Fed Chair Powell criminal investigation

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 13, 2026 59:43


    Vice President JD Vance responds to reports he was 'skeptical' and 'opposed' to the U.S. and Israeli combat operation against Iran; Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth at a Pentagon news conference touts what he says has been great success in the war thus far, taunts the Iran leadership for hiding underground, says of the closed Strait of Hormuz to oil shipments by Iran, “We have been dealing with it, and don't need to worry about it", and mourns the deaths of six U.S. servicemembers in an airplane accident over Iraq, which  the military says was an accident and not from hostile or friendly fire; Germany's Chancellor opposes the U.S. suspending of sanctions against Russia so more Russian oil can enter the world market and lower energy prices; Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D-MI) calls Thursday's attack on a synagogue in her state an act of "antisemitism" and "hate, plain and simple"; Federal judge blocks Justice Department subpoenas in the Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell criminal investigation, writing there is a mountain of evidence the subpoenas were designed to get Powell to vote to lower interest rates or resign; British House of Lords abolishes the 700-year-old practice of some members getting their seats based upon their parents, known as hereditary peers. We will talk about it with C-SPAN's Westminster Correspondent Peter Knowles. (49) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Suspected terror attacks in Michigan & Virginia; Iran's new Supreme Leader issues first message; Senate passes affordable housing bill

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2026 58:33


    A suspected attacker is dead after a vehicle reportedly packed with explosives rams into a synagogue in West Bloomfield, Michigan, which has a school & daycare center. A guard was injured, but no children or staff; A deadly shooting at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia is being investigated as an act of terrorism. The suspect has connections to ISIS; Iranian TV says the new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei in his first statement says the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed to oil tankers affiliated with the U.S. and Israel; Energy Secretary Christopher Wright talks about the release of the more than 170 million barrels of oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to curb rising gas prices; Another Senate vote to end the Homeland Security Department shutdown fails, with Democrats still demanding reforms to federal immigration enforcement be attached and Republicans opposing that; Senate passes a bill to promote more affordable housing, but it differs from the House-passed version. We will talk with Reuters Congressional reporter Richard Cowan about what happens next (32); Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) says a bill to require proof of U.S. citizenship to vote will come up next week, and reports are the debate will be extensive, with late nights expected; Long-time Rep. James Clyburn (D-SC), former No. 3 in the House Democratic leadership, announces he will not retire, but run again this November; conversation with Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett; President Donald Trump & First Lady Melania Trump host a Women's History Month celebration at the White House; NASA gives an update on the Artemis II moon mission schedule. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Pres. Trump says 'we're not finished yet' with military strikes on Iran; Int'l Energy Agency says record 400 million barrels of oil to be released to bring down energy prices

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 11, 2026 59:06


    President Donald Trump tells reporters outside the White House the U.S. has hit Iran "harder than virtually any country in history has been hit" but "we're not finished yet"; International Energy Agency says its 32 member countries have agreed to release a record 400 million barrels of oil to try to lower prices that have spiked with the disruptions caused by the war with Iran; United Nations Security Council adopts a resolution condemning Iranian attacks against neighboring Gulf nations. The resolution does not mention the attacks by the United States or Israel. Russia and China abstain from the vote; Department of Homeland Security remains closed after more failed funding attempts on the Senate floor. Democrats offer to reopen all agencies but Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs & Border Protections while negotiations over federal immigration procedure reform continues, and Republicans object. Republicans offered to reopen the entire department, and Democrats object; House Oversight Committee questions the accountant for the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, Richard Kahn; Japan pauses to remember the devastating earthquake and tsunami that hit the country 15 years ago today, killing thousands and causing a nuclear power plant meltdown. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    White House says gas price increases due to war with Iran are temporary; Sen. Blumenthal says Trump Admin. on path to put U.S. troops in Iran

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2026 59:24


    White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt says the recent increase in oil and gas prices is temporary and the prices will drop rapidly once the objectives of the U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran are achieved; Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) says after a classified briefing on the Iran war the Trump Administration is on a path towards putting U.S. troops on the ground in Iran; Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth in a morning briefing says today will be the 'most intense day of strikes' in the war; Senate confirms U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Joshua Rudd to lead the National Security Agency and the U.S. Cyber Command; Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) is asked about President Donald Trump's demand to make passage of a mandatory voter ID bill the top priority; Gov. Tim Walz (D-MN) unveils a proposal to overhaul the delivery of programs like Medicaid,  which have been the subject of federal fraud investigations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Iran Leadership Change, G7 Oil Discussions, and DHS Shutdown Delays

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 9, 2026 40:51


    Finance ministers from the Group of Seven major economies met today to discuss a possible coordinated release of strategic oil reserves, but no decision was announced. Meanwhile, the son of Iran's deceased supreme leader has been named the country's next leader — though President Trump says any transition would need approval from the United States. Back in Washington, House Republicans are holding their annual retreat, where President Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson are expected to address reporters. And as the partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security enters its fourth week, airport security delays are growing as TSA screeners continue working without pay. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    The Weekly: Iran, Kristi Noem, and Campaign 2026 Kick Off

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 7, 2026 32:24


    This week, the conflict with Iran escalated, raising fears of a wider war in the Middle East. At home, President Trump fired Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem in a major shake-up inside his administration. And the 2026 midterm elections got underway, with the first round of primary contests in Texas, North Carolina, and California offering an early test of the political landscape. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Weekend Edition: Ongoing U-S and Israeli Combat Operations Against Iran, Campaign 2026 Primaries, and Video Depositions of Fmr. President Bill Clinton and Hilary Clinton

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 7, 2026 31:33


    In this weekend's episode, three segments from this past week's Washington Journal. First: a conversation with journalist Avi Mayer - founder of the Jerusalem Journal – discusses ongoing U-S and Israeli combat operations against Iran. Then: the first primaries of Campaign 2026 kicked off this week. We read the tea leaves with National Journal's "Hotline" Editor Kirk Bado. Plus: the video depositions of former President Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton went public this week. We'll discuss the fallout and what's next in the Epstein files investigation with Ken Thomas of the Wall Street Journal. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    White House says Pres. Trump will decided when Iran has reached 'unconditional surrender'; February jobs report worse than expected

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 6, 2026 59:57


    President Donald Trump says he will accept only 'unconditional surrender' from Iran and there are reports Russia is providing intelligence to Iran to target U.S. military positions in the Middle East; Jobs report from the Labor Department shows the U.S. lost 92,000 jobs in February and the unemployment rate went up from 4.3% to 4.4%. We will talk about the jobs report and the effect of the war with Iran on the economy with Courtenay Brown, Axios Senior Economics reporter (18); former Presidents Barack Obama, Joe Biden and Bill Clinton pay tribute to the late Rev. Jesse Jackson at his funeral in Chicago; Gov. Gavin Newsom (D-CA) tells C-SPAN about a late night phone call he had with President Trump; 2026 Paralympics open in Italy with some European countries boycotting because athletes from Russia & Belarus are being allowed to compete. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Pres. Trump nominates Sen. Mullin (R-OK) to replace fired Homeland Security Sec. Kristi Noem; House votes down Iran War Powers resolution

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2026 61:03


    President Donald Trump says he is removing Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and nominating Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) as the new Secretary; House votes down a War Powers Act resolution to restrict President Trump's ability to wage war on Iran; Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-TX) admits he had an affair with a staff member who later committed suicide. House Republicans leaders call on him to no longer seek reelection; Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. says medical schools have agreed to increase instruction on good nutrition; National Park Service predicts the peak bloom dates for the Cherry Blossom trees in Washington, DC. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Senate votes down War Powers Act resolution to limit Pres. Trump ability to conduct military operations against Iran  

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2026 58:44


    Senate defeats a War Powers Act resolution to prohibit President Donald Trump from launching further military attacks on Iran without Congressional authorization; Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth says of the operations against Iran, “More and larger waves are coming. We are just getting started"; President Trump says the U.S. had to strike Iran because, “if we waited any longer – if we didn't hit within two weeks – they would have had a nuclear weapon”; Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem testifies before the House Judiciary Committee about immigration enforcement operations and the shooting deaths of two protesters by federal agents; Gov. Tim Walz (D-MN) & Attorney General Keith Ellison (D-MN) testify before the U.S. House Oversight Committee about fraud in public aid programs; President Trump says he has secured a pledge from big technology companies to pay for the large quantity of electricity needed for AI data centers, so the cost is not passed on to American households. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Former President Bill Clinton House Oversight Deposition in Epstein Investigation

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 4, 2026 276:12


    Former President Bill Clinton testifies at a closed-door deposition on the Jeffrey Epstein investigation before the House Oversight Committee in Chappaqua, New York. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Hilary Clinton House Oversight Deposition in Epstein Investigation

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 4, 2026 278:03


    Next, the full audio recording from former first lady and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. She testified before the House Oversight Committee as part of its investigation of convicted financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. She told House lawmakers that she had no knowledge of Jeffrey Epstein's or Ghislaine Maxwell's crimes and had never met Epstein. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Sec. Rubio says State Dept is helping evacuate Americans from Middle East; Pres. Trump says Iran was going to attack first; DHS Sec. Noem testifies before Senate Cmte.

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 4, 2026 58:10


    Secretary of State Marco Rubio says his department is helping evacuate Americans in the Middle East in countries caught up in the war with Iran where commercial flights are not available; President Donald Trump meets German Chancellor Friedrich Merz at the White House, where the president suggests the U.S. & Israel attacked Iran because Iran was about to attack first; House & Senate will vote in the next few days on a War Powers Resolution that, if it became law, would limit President Trump's authority to conduct military operations against Iran; Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem testifies before the Senate Judiciary Committee for the first time since she suggested the actions of Renee Good & Alex Pretti, two anti-ICE protesters shot and killed by federal immigration officers in Minneapolis, appeared to be domestic terrorism; Supreme Court hears a challenge to a federal law banning firearm possession by someone who uses or is addicted to illegal drugs. Plaintiff in the case said he smokes marijuana; preview of C-SPAN's Campaign 2026 Primary Night coverage of races in Texas, North Carolina & Arkansas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    President Trump says military operations against Iran will last several weeks

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 2, 2026 54:34


    President Donald Trump talks about U.S. attacks on Iran. House Oversight Committee releases recordings of former President Bill Clinton & former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's testimony in the Jeffrey Epstein investigation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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