Marketplace Morning Report: "What else is in the legislation to reopen the government? A lot."

Date: November 13, 2025
Host: David Brancaccio
Contributors: Nancy Marshall Genzer, Nova Safo, Sam Grouet, Amanda Stevenson, Heather Exner Perrot, Deborah Yedlin, Amy Scott

Episode Overview

This episode dives into the multifaceted legislation that reopened the U.S. government, highlighting lesser-known provisions attached to the bills, especially earmarks for specific projects and industries. In under ten minutes, it also touches on regulatory moves affecting corporate proxy advisory firms, updates on labor action at Starbucks, and a feature regarding Canada’s ambitions to become an “energy superpower,” especially in liquefied natural gas (LNG). Finally, there’s a preview of an investigative podcast examining climate change’s impact on global food systems.

Key Discussion Points and Insights

1. What’s Buried In The Government Reopening Legislation?

Segment: 00:16 – 01:19

• Host David Brancaccio introduces the real scope of the bills that reopened the government, stressing there are hidden items beyond just keeping operations running.
• Nancy Marshall Genzer outlines several earmarks and appropriations:
  • Military construction: Funding for an Army dining facility in Alaska, flight control towers in Alabama.
  • Agricultural support: USDA restarts farm loan processing; special funds for a rice research center (Arkansas) and a technical innovation center (Hawaii).
  • Improvements in rural infrastructure: Broadband expansion, telemedicine, rental assistance.
  • Health and safety: FDA given authority to seize/destroy counterfeit imported tobacco products (e.g., vapes).
• Notable Quote:
  • “There’s plenty of money for lawmakers’ pet projects or earmarks in the appropriations bill for military construction…” — Nancy Marshall Genzer (00:38)

2. White House May Move to Rein in Proxy Advisory Firms

Segment: 01:19 – 03:02

• Nova Safo reports on the White House’s potential plans to limit the influence of proxy advisory firms (companies like ISS and Glass Lewis that advise shareholders on corporate governance votes).
• Jamie Dimon, CEO of JPMorgan Chase, is vocally critical:
  • Memorable Moment:
    • “Anyone who uses them. Shame on you.” — Jamie Dimon (impersonated by Sam Grouet) at a March forum (01:38)
• Expert Commentary:
  • Robert Bartlett (Stanford): Explains the crucial role of proxy advisers for institutional investors.
  • Tao Li (UFL): Warns curbs could have reverse effects, possibly reducing overall shareholder participation and putting more power in management’s hands.
  • Notable Quote:
    • “Having proxy advisors advising the largest institutional investors in general is working really well. Without any recommendations, how would people vote?” — Tao Li (02:35)

3. Starbucks Red Cup Day Strike

Segment: 03:02 – 03:31

• David Brancaccio mentions a labor dispute: Starbucks baristas at 65 locations (per union, in 40 cities) are striking on the chain’s high-volume "Red Cup Day." Starbucks disputes the numbers.

4. Canada’s Energy Ambitions: LNG and Oil Exports

Segment: 03:59 – 07:38

• Host: David Brancaccio sets up coverage of Canada’s pitch to become an “energy superpower,” particularly to Asian markets, amid shifting global energy trade dynamics.
• Sam Grouet (BBC): Reporting from the Port of Vancouver, describes the infrastructure and growing role of energy exports (esp. LNG).
  • First LNG cargo left for Asia this July; two more terminals under construction; two others approved and awaiting final investment.
  • Heather Exner Perrot (McDonald Laurier Institute):
    • Sees Asia as a “no brainer” market, especially amid U.S. trade tensions.
    • Quote: “There’s not a lot of bright spots in the Canadian economy these days, but LNG… is one of those where you’re really seeing growth and you’re really seeing foreign interest. And the obvious answer to that is Asia.” (05:44)
  • Opposition & Division:
    • Some environmentalists oppose further LNG expansion.
    • Conservatives (Pierre Poilievre) and business groups (Deborah Yedlin, Calgary Chamber) want more oil pipelines.
    • Amanda Stevenson (Reuters): Notes deep division: “Oil pipelines are not unanimously supported in Canada. Far from it. So… Mark Carney… is going to have to… balance the interests of environmentalists and the economy.” (06:38)
• Conclusion:
  • Canada’s path to becoming an “energy superpower” is fraught with public, environmental, and political hurdles.
    • Quote: “Canada may call itself an energy superpower, but proving it will take much more than words.” — Sam Grouet (07:27)

5. Climate Crisis and the Future of Food

Segment: 07:51 – 08:39

• Amy Scott previews the “How We Survive” podcast’s new season, warning that climate change could threaten everyday staples like chocolate, coffee, corn, and wheat:
  • “Imagine a future where chocolate and coffee are rare and expensive… we could be heading there if we don’t recognize that the climate crisis is also a food crisis.” (07:51)
  • David Brancaccio: Adds his perspective on witnessing the impact of drought first-hand.
• The segment underscores: Ongoing research and innovation are vital for adapting food systems in response to climate pressures.

Timestamps for Key Segments

• Overview of Government Reopening Legislation: 00:16 – 01:19
• Proxy Advisory Firm Debate: 01:19 – 03:02
• Starbucks Strike: 03:02 – 03:31
• Canada—Energy Superpower Ambitions: 03:59 – 07:38
• Climate/Food Systems Podcast Preview: 07:51 – 08:39

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “There’s plenty of money for lawmakers’ pet projects or earmarks in the appropriations bill for military construction…” — Nancy Marshall Genzer (00:38)
• “Anyone who uses them. Shame on you.” — Jamie Dimon (impersonated by Sam Grouet, 01:38)
• “Having proxy advisors advising the largest institutional investors in general is working really well. Without any recommendations, how would people vote?” — Tao Li (02:35)
• “There’s not a lot of bright spots in the Canadian economy these days, but LNG… is one of those.” — Heather Exner Perrot (05:44)
• “Canada may call itself an energy superpower, but proving it will take much more than words.” — Sam Grouet (07:27)
• “Imagine a future where chocolate and coffee are rare and expensive… the climate crisis is also a food crisis.” — Amy Scott (07:51)

Summary

This episode efficiently surveys the far-reaching implications—intended and not—of the legislation keeping the U.S. government open, along with sharp takes on corporate power, labor unrest, and how global trade and the climate crisis are recalibrating entire industries. The reporting is brisk, clear, and balanced, with memorable expert commentary and crisp storytelling, capturing a snapshot of how business, politics, and the environment collide in current affairs.