A new study argues a slice of Congress is being driven less by lawmaking and more by attention, with some members acting as “conflict entrepreneurs” who rely on personal insults and character attacks as a repeat strategy. University of Notre Dame assistant professor of democracy and global affairs Marc Jacob walks Jeff through an analysis of 2.2 million public statements from the 118th Congress, from floor speeches to posts on X, formerly known as Twitter, and explains why these lawmakers can be rewarded with headlines and cable news hits even as they rack up fewer policy wins and less prestigious committee assignments.
PLUS: A major defection from the Trump administration as National Counterterrorism Center Director Joe Kent resigns, arguing Iran posed no imminent threat to the United States. ABC’s Luke Barr breaks down the fallout, the White House response and what comes next as questions swirl about who is running day-to-day operations — and as Kent faces reports of a possible FBI investigation tied to alleged leaks.
AND: Back in the Northwest, Gov. Bob Ferguson signs a ban on law enforcement officers wearing masks while on duty, a bill he says is aimed at ICE and that Republicans opposed. Washington’s Supreme Court weighs in on public defender caseload limits, saying they are mandatory — not suggestions — in a ruling with statewide implications as counties continue suing over public defense funding. And President Trump draws groans at the White House with an awkward remark about a “surprise” while hosting Japan’s prime minister.
The Northwest Politicast with Jeff Pohjola: From this Washington to that one, Jeff Pohjola explores the politics and issues of the week. Frequent guests and top analysts break down the news to get to the heart of what matters most.
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