cover of episode Congress Returns, Trump's Justice Department , Biden's Global Bind

Congress Returns, Trump's Justice Department , Biden's Global Bind

2024/11/12
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Key Insights

Why is the selection of Republican leadership in Congress a significant issue?

President-elect Donald Trump aims to influence the choices, potentially bypassing congressional confirmations through recess appointments, which could expedite his nominees' confirmations.

What are the potential changes Trump's administration might implement at the Justice Department?

Trump could cut federal grant funds for local police, enforce the Comstock Act to criminalize abortion medication, restart federal capital punishment, and overhaul the FBI to increase political control.

How might Trump's return affect global relationships, particularly with China?

Biden may emphasize the threat of more tariffs from Trump, urging China and other countries to adhere to established rules to avoid economic repercussions.

Who are the leading contenders for the Senate Minority Leader position?

Senators John Cornyn of Texas and John Thune of South Dakota are frontrunners, but Trump loyalists are pushing for Florida Senator Rick Scott.

What is the significance of Trump's demand for GOP senators to agree to recess appointments?

Recess appointments allow the president to bypass Senate confirmation, making it easier to fill vacancies or appoint temporary, possibly controversial nominees.

How does Biden plan to address global concerns during his South American trip?

Biden will likely reassure allies of the U.S.'s long-term commitment to global partnerships, despite Trump's return, and emphasize the need for countries like China to follow international rules.

Who are the potential candidates for the Attorney General position in Trump's administration?

Names include Senator Mike Lee, former DOJ official Jeff Clark, former federal prosecutor Todd Blanche, and longtime D.C. lawyer Mark Paoletta.

What is the significance of the FBI Director's term length?

The 10-year term was established to prevent the director from being influenced by political pressures, ensuring the FBI's independence.

Chapters

As Congress returns, the Republican Party faces leadership decisions in both the Senate and the House. Senator McConnell's stepping down opens a race between contenders like John Cornyn and John Thune, with pressure from Trump allies for Rick Scott. In the House, Mike Johnson is expected to retain the speaker's gavel, while Democrats will hold their leadership elections next week.
  • Trump allies are pushing for Rick Scott to lead the Senate Republicans.
  • John Cornyn and John Thune are seen as the frontrunners for Senate Minority Leader.
  • Mike Johnson is expected to remain Speaker of the House.

Shownotes Transcript

As Congress reconvenes, Trump allies are pushing the president-elect's preferences for Republican leadership. As Trump considers his pick for attorney general, questions grow about the future direction of the Justice Department. And, President Joe Biden meets with world leaders in South America, navigating global concerns in the wake of Trump's return to office.*Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter).*Today's episode of Up First was edited by Anna Yukhananov, Roberta Rampton, Mohamad ElBardicy, and Alice Woelfle.It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Ben Abrams and Julie Depenbrock.We get engineering support from Arthur Laurent. And our technical director is Zac Coleman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices)NPR Privacy Policy)