Democratic Congressman Neguse on GOP Disaster CR

Summary

The MeidasTouch Podcast: Detailed Summary Episode Title: Democratic Congressman Neguse on GOP Disaster CR
Release Date: March 12, 2025
Host: MeidasTouch Network (Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas)

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Introduction

In this episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast, the Meiselas brothers engage in a robust discussion with Democratic Congressman Joe Neguse about the recent actions of the GOP regarding the Continuing Resolution (CR). The conversation delves into the implications of the CR, the current political climate, and the broader impact of Republican policies on American constituents. The episode is characterized by the brothers' signature blend of insightful political analysis and their trademark comedic banter.

Main Discussion

1. The Passing of the GOP-Controlled Continuing Resolution

The episode kicks off with Congressman Joe Neguse providing a brief legislative update:

• Joe Neguse [01:43]: "The bill is passed without objection. The motion to reconsider is laid upon."

Immediately, host Ben Meiselas criticizes the GOP's handling of the CR, highlighting the paradox of Republican members celebrating a resolution that, according to him, harms their own constituencies.

• Ben [01:53]: "These MAGA Republicans are quite literally cheering on the fact that they're harming their own constituents."

Ben draws attention to the numerous instances within the CR that set funding for essential programs like the EPA, healthcare, and education to zero, effectively cutting support for red states. He underscores the irony of GOP members who previously vowed never to pass another CR now enthusiastically supporting one.

2. Analysis of Republican Rhetoric and Actions

Ben critiques the GOP's public relations approach, comparing their clapping to that of authoritarian regimes and suggesting a disturbing admiration of figures like Kim Jong Un.

• Ben [02:00]: "It looks a little bit Kim Jong Unish. And I guess there's a reason why Donald Trump looks up to Kim Jong."

He further criticizes the perpetuation of policies that destabilize the economy, citing actions like imposing tariffs, which contribute to market instability and economic uncertainty for Americans.

3. Congressman Neguse's Response and Insights

Congressman Neguse responds by condemning the GOP's reckless policies and their impact on American families:

• Joe Neguse [05:02]: "There is nothing to applaud about, but, you know, past his prologue, it's clear that this is the course that they will maintain."

Neguse emphasizes the adverse effects of the CR, including cuts to nutrition assistance, healthcare benefits, and veterans' services. He accuses Republican leadership of prioritizing political machinations over the well-being of their constituents.

• Joe Neguse [06:41]: "This is the most confounding part of all. House Democrats are going to remain focused... on quality of life, cost of living, addressing core challenges that the American people face that Republicans refuse to address."

4. Constituent Frustrations and the Broader Impact

Ben shifts the conversation to the sentiments of constituents in Colorado, highlighting a mix of political affiliations expressing frustration with the current administration's policies.

• Ben [09:14]: "What are you hearing from constituents, not just Democrats, but like, are you hearing from independents and Republicans?"

Congressman Neguse elaborates on the widespread dissatisfaction across political spectra, noting concerns about government employee purges, rising living costs, and ineffective economic policies.

• Joe Neguse [09:56]: "Folks are pissed off... average working family looking at your 401k... and clearly a recession potentially looming on the horizon."

He underscores the disconnect between Republican policies and the needs of everyday Americans, emphasizing the tangible hardships caused by these legislative actions.

5. The Role of the Rules Committee and Congressional Hypocrisy

The discussion touches upon Neguse's role on the Rules Committee, where he frequently challenges Republican colleagues.

• Ben [06:41]: "I watch you on the Rules Committee... do they admit kind of privately that like they know that this is big trouble or are they fully Pyongyang, North Korea clap clap mode."

Neguse criticizes the lack of accountability and honesty within the Republican caucus, pointing out the pervasive sycophancy towards President Trump.

• Joe Neguse [07:27]: "Most of the Republican caucus now are sycophants for President Trump... nothing that article one branch of government, the United States Congress, is supposed to function."

He lamentably describes the current state of Congress as one where hypocrisy is rampant, and meaningful legislative debate is stifled by partisan loyalty.

6. Economic Policies and Their Consequences

Ben sarcastically mocks the administration's inconsistent and chaotic policy decisions, ranging from tariffs to unpredictable foreign policy stances.

• Ben [12:01]: "Am I going to invade Greenland today? Am I going to Invade Canada today? 51st State Day?"

This segment highlights the perceived irrationality and volatility of GOP policies, which Congressman Neguse argues are detrimental to economic stability and national security.

• Joe Neguse [13:29]: "It's absurd. It's ludicrous... average working family... struggling to be able to buy a new car because car prices are soaring."

Neguse connects these policies to real-world impacts, such as soaring car prices and eroded 401k savings, painting a bleak picture of the current economic trajectory under GOP leadership.

Notable Quotes

• Ben [01:53]: "These MAGA Republicans are quite literally cheering on the fact that they're harming their own constituents."

• Joe Neguse [05:02]: "There is nothing to applaud about, but... this is the course that they will maintain."

• Joe Neguse [07:27]: "Most of the Republican caucus now are sycophants for President Trump."

• Joe Neguse [09:56]: "Folks are pissed off... average working family looking at your 401k... and clearly a recession potentially looming on the horizon."

• Joe Neguse [13:29]: "It's absurd. It's ludicrous... struggling to be able to buy a new car because car prices are soaring."

Conclusion

The episode concludes with host Ben expressing appreciation for Congressman Neguse's participation and insights. Neguse reciprocates the sentiment, indicating a mutual respect and eagerness for future engagements.

• Ben [14:54]: "This is your first time on the Midas Touch Network. We got to have you."

• Joe Neguse [15:14]: "The feeling is mutual... I definitely look forward to coming back."

The discussion effectively highlights the tensions within the current political landscape, emphasizing the clash between Republican policies and the needs of American voters. Congressman Neguse's critical perspective offers listeners a comprehensive understanding of the legislative challenges and their direct impact on everyday lives.

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Key Takeaways:

• The GOP's passing of the Continuing Resolution is criticized for cutting essential funding and harming constituents.
• Republican leadership is depicted as hypocritical and overly loyal to President Trump, neglecting the genuine needs of the populace.
• Economic instability and rising living costs are major concerns among constituents, exacerbated by current GOP policies.
• Congressman Neguse advocates for a focus on quality of life and economic reforms to address the pressing challenges faced by Americans.

For those seeking a deeper dive into the intricate dynamics of American politics and the ongoing legislative battles, this episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast offers a thorough and engaging analysis, enriched by firsthand insights from Congressman Joe Neguse.

Transcript

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[Joe Neguse]

The bill is passed without objection. The motion to reconsider is laid upon.

[Ben]

The table.

[Joe Neguse]

Pursuant to clause.

[Ben]

So that's the moment the MAGA Republican members of Congress were cheering that they they pass their cr their continuing resolution. That reminds me of something. Where have I seen clapping like that before? Where people look terrified by clapping at the same time. Oh yeah, I think I've. I've seen that before. It looks like that's what these MAGA Republicans have become these days. It looks a little bit Kim Jong Unish. And I guess there's a reason why Donald Trump looks up to Kim Jong. And when you look at this continuing resolution, There are about 22 different instances at least. Although I want to see if there may be even more than that in this bill where the funding for certain programs is set at $0. And if you look at the types of things that are being cut. Go back to that last graphic as well there. Salty. I mean, you're looking at things like EPA Health care, education, things that are going to also harm red states. So these MAGA Republicans are quite literally cheering on the fact that they're harming their own constituents. By the way, these are the same MAGA Republican Congress members who. Who for years have now been saying, we will never pass a continuing resolution again. The days of CRS are over, and if there is a cr, it's going to be clean crs. This was none of that. But then they tried to spin it, I think, in kind of Pyongyang fashion. This is MAGA Republican Congress member Tom Emmer just saying how great things are. Play this clip.

[Joe Neguse]

Last week, we celebrated President Trump's countless victories for the American people during his joint address to Congress. This week, Congress must pass a continuing resolution so the American people can continue to enjoy win after win after win. This is the way forward. But unfortunately, Democrats and Congress would rather throw temper tantrums fueled by their hatred for President Trump than keep the government open and working for all Americans.

[Ben]

Last time I checked, y'all are the ones who control the House and the Senate and the executive branch. And y'all are the ones who are throwing the temper tantrums. This is MAGA Republican Congressmember Steve Scalise. Just take a look at this. Last week, all Americans who watched the State of the Union saw a very triumphant President Trump who's returned to the White House with even more energy, more vigor, and more focused to work for the American people than ever before, laying out in just six short weeks how much he's already done to fulfill the promises. What was Donald Trump doing today while the markets were crashing? Oh, yeah, he was out there with Elon Musk selling Teslas and doing product placement while their propaganda network as well, Sean Hannity, talking about buying Teslas. It must be nice, all these rich people buying Teslas all over the place and helping out their billionaire friends. Let's bring in Democratic Congressmember Joe Negus. Congressmember, you sit on the Rules Committee. You're on the Subcommittee of Budget and Legislation. So you know this cr. What are they cheering for right there? Can you put this into context?

[Joe Neguse]

It's a great question. Good to be with you, Ben, and thanks for having me on. Look, first and foremost, I got to react to the clips that you just showed because it is the height of absurdity for some of those Republican members. Literally, as the stock market is crashing, 401ks are vanishing for countless Americans across the country. Prices are going up across the board, and yet you have these Republican members sycophants praising the administration that is pursuing the reckless policies, causing the harm that their constituents are experiencing. It is nonsensical. And of course, as you mentioned, the logical extension of this was today's vote on the cr, which they apparently were very proud of. This is a bill that would cut funding for core programs that countless Americans rely upon, nutrition assistance, healthcare benefits, veterans benefits under the PACT act for the next fiscal year, all on the chopping block under this partisan Republican spending bill that they pushed through the House earlier today. There is nothing to applaud about, but, you know, again, past his prologue, it's clear that this is the course that they will maintain. And the fact that, as you said, you can see the sort of corruption on full display over at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue today, it just is astounding, I think, to the average American who's struggling right now to make ends meet and to see a Republican majority in Washington, in the House and the Senate and in the White House that clearly cares nothing about ultimately improving their quality of life, it's shameful.

[Ben]

You know, I watch you on the Rules Committee and it's an interesting committee because the members of Congress who are putting forward the legislation appear kind of as witnesses. So you're actually kind of examining or questioning your Republican colleagues. I want to talk about that because, I mean, I'm sure you speak to these people not in that setting where they know that like our people at the Midas Touch Network are clipping all that stuff and getting it all up, like after they're done with that theater, while you're like, do they, do they admit kind of privately that like they know that this is big trouble or are they fully Pyongyang, North Korea clap clap mode, that this is, this is their shtick, this is their jam?

[Joe Neguse]

I mean, look, this isn't, it's an, it's instructive in terms of where we are as a country. I think in the past, you know, might have a member or two that would approach me afterwards that understood that we had caught them, you know, in a bit of a, a trap, if you will. Rhetorical trap. Right. They sort of exposing the hypocrisy of, of their views in front of the Rules Committee, but would understand that perhaps that might be something that they need to modulate in the future. These days that's not the case. Generally speaking, as I said, you know, most of the Republican caucus now are sycophants for President Trump. There is nothing that he cannot do in their eyes, nothing that they won't bless and approve of and salute. And it's unfortunate. I mean, again, this is not the way in which article one branch of government, the United States Congress, is supposed to function. And yet here, here's where we are and we find ourselves. So, yeah, with respect to the Rules Committee, as you mentioned, it's a unique committee in the Congress because it's the only committee in the Congress that a, has no time limit in terms of the questions that are posed by members or the answers that are provided. And then secondly, as you said, it's an opportunity to be able to question your own colleagues. And in my view, when you're coming in front of the Rules Committee and you're making the case to the American people for a policy that you're pursuing, then you ought to be, you know, artfully and honestly questioned about your own views and how they comport with, you know, the particular position you're taking. And often, as is the case, a lot of these members don't like, you know, ultimately being, you know, told or rather having it revealed to them the position they had taken on a particular issue previously. That just lays bare the hypocrisy which is all too common these days in Washington.

[Ben]

You represent a district in Colorado. I would say on the whole, Colorado as a state is bluer, but there are certainly lots of red dots within Colorado as well, and purplish areas in Colorado as well. You know, what are you hearing from constituents, not just Democrats, but like, are you hearing from independents and Republicans? And are you hearing across the board in Colorado that there's kind of a growing frustration, would be putting it, I think, gently to what Elon Musk and Trump is doing? Do you feel this is still kind of people are in their partisan camps. What are you seeing in your state?

[Joe Neguse]

I think my answer to your the first part of your question is unquestionably, yes. I think people are frustrated and we hear from folks across the political spectrum about their frustration and displeasure with the way in which the Trump administration is conducting itself. I mean, look, I represent you mentioned this district, of course, in my view, the best district in the United States of America. But it's a large geographical district. It's larger than nine states, central and northern and western Colorado. Right. Rural communities, urban communities, suburban communities, you name it. And as I go across my district doing town halls, because as House Democrats, we do town halls, we actually enjoy town halls and visiting with constituents and listening to them and their concerns, I hear from folks who are deeply troubled by the mass purge of federal employees right. At the Forest Service These are people doing wildfire mitigation work, preventing the next mega fire in the Rocky Mountain West. People who are concerned about the land management agencies and the people working at our federal labs at NOAA and NIST who are now being unceremoniously fired and purged from the federal workforce. They are concerned about the rising cost of living in an administration that clearly has no intention of doing anything about it and instead is only pursuing policies that'll exacerbate the problem. Right. I mean, you're an average working family looking at your 401k and realizing that in the last six weeks, the Trump administration has erased all gains in the last year. I mean, and clearly a recession potentially looming on the horizon. So, yeah, folks are pissed off. Just to be candid, as I talk to people in my district, again, across the political spectrum, it's not to suggest that people don't want to see government reform. Folks are hungry for reform. They're hungry to see fraud, waste and abuse rooted out of the government. But they don't want to see a chainsaw, a literal chainsaw, taken to the core functions of the federal government that serve Coloradans each and every day. They did not sign up for that.

[Ben]

And I just don't think anybody signed up for the chaos. It's every day tariffs, no tariffs. Tariffs are great. Tariffs are the worst. What are we going to do? Am I going to invade Greenland today? Am I going to Invade Canada today? 51st State Day? Is today a Panama Canal conquest day? What are we talking, we talking about fentanyl in Mexico today? Where are we going with this? You know, is he going to send a shalom Hamas text? Is he going to post images of himself in Trump Gaza City, you know, with bearded people with cleavage? What's it's like? It's not. I always say we can't normalize this behavior. And then there's like a, like a gaslighting element to it as well. Like, you know, he'll have, you know, Peter Navarro, who by the way, served jail time for, you know, his conduct related contempt of Congress attempt of Congress. He's out there right now asking Canada, can you please just tamp it down, Tamp down the rhetoric. Canada, he goes tamp down the rhetoric. Watch this.

[Joe Neguse]

But frankly, the premier, he's been, I mean, look, just tamp it down, please, over there, okay? The throwing down the hockey gloves and stop that rhetoric. And let's just look at what we're trying to do. We love Canada, but look, there's some big issues there. And we're not going to tolerate anything but them stopping killing Americans and doing what's right with respect to things like steel and aluminum, which they've been dumping into our country. And that's stopping.

[Ben]

I mean, this is not. Is this not normal?

[Joe Neguse]

Yeah. Yeah, you're precisely right. I don't know that I could say it better than you just did. I mean, look, it's absurd. It's ludicrous sort of arsonists that are now, you know, complaining about the fire that they have created. And unfortunately, this is the most tragic part of all, is that there will be mass collateral damage to the absurdities of the policies that they are pursuing. And so I think about average working family in my district that's struggling to be able to buy a new car because car prices are soaring through the roof, interest rates are still remarkably high, and what are they left with? They're left with the. The car infomercial that the President of the United States conducted earlier today on the White House lawn. That. That is their policy prescription, right, is to engage in these reckless economic policies, the tariffs and the rest, unnecessary trade wars, and then ultimately offer nothing of actual consequence to the American people who are really struggling. And from my perspective, that's the most confounding part of all. House Democrats are going to remain focused. You know, as Leader Jeffries often says, keeping the main thing. The main thing, which is quality of life, cost of living, addressing core challenges that the American people face that Republicans refuse to address. And as I said, if anything are exacerbating.

[Ben]

There you have it. I'd love to. This is your first time on the Midas Touch Network. We got to have you. We got to have you back. You know, there's a reason that Asen has so many clips of you, because as a former litigator, I love your style, I love your examinations, and I always pointed out to him. So it's great to finally have you on the network, and we hope you come back.

[Joe Neguse]

Oh, the feeling is mutual. I'm glad to come on. I've been telling my buddy Moskowitz. He keeps saying, you got to go on, you got to go on. I've been watching for a long time, so I definitely look forward to coming back.

[Ben]

All right, good to have you here. It's subscribed. Let's get to 5 million subscribers. Thanks for watching. Can't get enough Midas. Check out the Midas plus substack for ad free articles, reports, podcasts, daily recaps from Ron Filipkowski and more. Sign up for free [e-mail].

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