Members phkrause Posted December 18, 2023 Author Members Share Posted December 18, 2023 Congress unlikely to finish work on Ukraine, border deal this year The Senate looks unlikely to advance new border security restrictions alongside billions more for Ukraine aid this month, as negotiators work through complex border law in difficult closed-door discussions with the Biden administration and top Senate aides. https://www.politico.com/news/2023/12/17/mcconnell-border-talks-not-done-00132188 White House open to new border expulsion law, mandatory detention and increased deportations in talks with Congress Washington — The Biden administration on Tuesday indicated to congressional lawmakers that it would be willing to support a new border authority to expel migrants without asylum screenings, as well as a dramatic expansion of immigration detention and deportations, to convince Republicans to back aid to Ukraine, four people familiar with the matter told CBS News. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/immigration-white-house-congress-border-security-detention-deportation/ Quote phkrause By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near. {5T 451.1} Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Members phkrause Posted December 18, 2023 Author Members Share Posted December 18, 2023 Behind the Curtain: Trumpy Congress Illustration: Aïda Amer/Axios If former President Trump wins next year, he'd have much greater power than in his first term — and fewer restraints on carrying out his political agenda. That's thanks to the trifecta of a more compliant cabinet, government workforce — and Congress, Jim VandeHei and Mike Allen write. Why it matters: We've shown how Trump would stack his cabinet and government with pre-vetted loyalists. This column is about the third reason he'd be able to move faster to punish enemies and impose his policies: very Trumpy congressional Republicans. What's happening: Trump, if he wins, will enjoy vigorous backing from the vast majority of GOP leaders and rank-and-file Republicans. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell is 81, has frozen twice on camera, and is loathed by Trump. McConnell has said he'll finish his term as leader, which ends after next year. Then he'll be under pressure to step aside — although he says he'll finish his Senate term, which ends after '26. McConnell's replacement is certain to be more aligned with Trump — and less likely to challenge him the way McConnell has (mostly in private). The intrigue: We've learned that House Speaker Mike Johnson, who has held the gavel for seven weeks, talks regularly with Trump. Johnson, who could remain party leader even if Republicans lose the House (although based on precedent, his fellow Louisianan, Majority Leader Steve Scalise, might get the job), will be more of a Trump enabler than former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. Yes, McCarthy sucked up to Trump in public. But he also has been known to roll his eyes privately. Pro-Trump forces have the power to oust Johnson or any leader who doesn't do Trump's bidding. Under the GOP's current rules, all it takes is one Republican to force a vote on removing the speaker. Assuming margins similar to those in the current House, as few as five Republicans could join with all Democrats to oust him. Most of the likely House GOP leaders — including committee chairs or ranking members, depending on whether Republicans keep the majority — are vocal Trump supporters. When Trump took office in 2017, he was dependent on former Speaker Paul Ryan, whose disdain for the president was obvious. Finally, Trump will benefit greatly from the absence of several of his biggest critics — most notably Sen. Mitt Romney of Utah, who's retiring after '24, and former Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.), who lost her primary while repeatedly confronting Trump. McCarthy, who's leaving the House at the end of this month, said in an interview that when Trump first came to Washington, "he didn't know the office, and he didn't know the Hill." "Trump is stronger today politically," McCarthy told us. "He knows the members personally — who can make things happen, who can deliver." Who's who: Trump's enforcer would be House Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan of Ohio, who talks often with the former president. Three other House members whose stock would rise: Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York, who turned heads in Trumpland with her devastating questioning of the college presidents; Rep. Gary Palmer of Alabama, who's working with Trump's campaign on energy policy; and Rep. Max Miller of Ohio, an aide in Trump's White House. A trio of GOP senators who'd have a ton of juice with Trump: Sen. J.D. Vance of Ohio, who's such a favorite he could go into the administration; Sen. John Barrasso of Wyoming, the current member of Senate leadership with whom Trump has the best relationship; and Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas, a confidant when Trump was in the White House. Read our full column. Quote phkrause By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near. {5T 451.1} Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Members phkrause Posted December 19, 2023 Author Members Share Posted December 19, 2023 💰 Reality bites House Republicans on spending House Republicans have entered holiday recess resigned to the prospect of punting again on their spending priorities to avoid a government shutdown, Axios' Juliegrace Brufke reports. Why it matters: Some GOP lawmakers fear they'll be jammed by the Senate on a massive omnibus spending package, raising the odds that the House chooses to instead extend former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's (D-Calif.) budget into 2025. Language in this year's debt limit deal would trigger 1% across-the-board spending cuts if Congress doesn't pass a permanent budget by April 1. While conservatives wouldn't get the deep spending rollbacks they're pushing for in specific areas of the government, many see the blanket cuts as the least-disastrous option. State of play: The first government shutdown deadline is just days after Congress returns in early January. Republicans have made little progress on appropriations since the last stopgap funding bill in November. Keep reading Quote phkrause By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near. {5T 451.1} Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Members phkrause Posted December 19, 2023 Author Members Share Posted December 19, 2023 🏛️ Charted: Paralyzed Congress Data: Quorum; Chart: Simran Parwani/Axios The 118th Congress is on track to be one of the most unproductive in modern history, with just a couple dozen laws on the books at the close of 2023, Axios' Andrew Solender reports from Quorum data. The big picture: Just 20 bills have been passed by both chambers and signed into law this year, with another four currently awaiting Biden's signature. That's far below even historically unproductive first years: The 104th, 112th and 113th Congresses, in which Republicans controlled one or both chambers with Democrats Bill Clinton and Barack Obama in the White House, passed between 70 and 73 laws. 2023 also marks the low point in a years-long trend toward gridlock: Five of the six most unproductive first years have been since 2011. Zoom in: When you dig into the laws passed by this Congress, the picture becomes even more bleak. The vast majority were uncontroversial bills that passed either by unanimous consent or with minimal opposition, including multiple measures to rename Veterans Affairs clinics and another to mint a coin commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Marine Corps. Keep reading Quote phkrause By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near. {5T 451.1} Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Members phkrause Posted December 19, 2023 Author Members Share Posted December 19, 2023 🏛️ Most sluggish Hill session in 34 years Data: Quorum. Chart: Simran Parwani/Axios The 118th Congress, which ends after next year, is on track to be one of the most unproductive in modern history, with just a couple dozen laws on the books so far, Andrew Solender writes for Axios Sneak Peek. Why it matters: Divided partisan control of Washington — plus infighting in the House Republican majority — have routinely ground legislative business to a halt. Just 20 bills have passed both chambers and been signed into law this year, with another four awaiting President Biden's signature, according to data that the public affairs software firm Quorum provided to Axios. That's far below even historically unproductive first years: The 104th, 112th and 113th Congresses, in which Republicans controlled one or both chambers with Democrats Bill Clinton and Barack Obama in the White House, passed between 70 and 73 laws. 🔬 Zoom in: When you dig into the laws passed by this Congress, the picture is even bleaker. The vast majority were uncontroversial bills that passed by unanimous consent or with minimal opposition. They include multiple measures to rename Veterans Affairs clinics — and one to mint a coin commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Marine Corps. Quote phkrause By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near. {5T 451.1} Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Members phkrause Posted December 20, 2023 Author Members Share Posted December 20, 2023 Senate yanks provision that would help Trinity Test atomic bomb victims Senate leaders have pulled a provision from this year's defense policy bill that would have expanded compensation for victims of the Trinity Test — the world's first atomic explosion. https://www.axios.com/2023/12/19/trinity-test-nuclear-bomb-victims-senate-bill? Quote phkrause By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near. {5T 451.1} Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Members phkrause Posted December 20, 2023 Author Members Share Posted December 20, 2023 📱 Senate's most prolific posters Data: Quorum; Chart: Axios Visuals Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, more than any other senator this year, Stef writes from a new Quorum analysis. Why it matters: Elon Musk's takeover might have upended the platform, but congressional offices and campaigns still rely on X to communicate. By the numbers: There were 616,701 posts on X from members of both chambers of Congress — a nearly 7% decline from 2022. Overall, Democratic lawmakers posted slightly more often than Republicans this year — approximately 1,187 posts per Democrat compared to 1,103 posts per Republican. But eight of the top 10 senators were Republicans. Quote phkrause By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near. {5T 451.1} Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Members phkrause Posted December 21, 2023 Author Members Share Posted December 21, 2023 US Senate negotiators see progress in immigration talks, but no deal likely until 2024 WASHINGTON — Senators attempting to clinch a bipartisan agreement on immigration and border policy gave the clearest indication yet Tuesday they’ll work into the new year, further delaying aid for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan. https://floridaphoenix.com/2023/12/19/us-senate-negotiators-see-progress-in-immigration-talks-but-no-deal-likely-until-2024/? Quote phkrause By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near. {5T 451.1} Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Members phkrause Posted December 21, 2023 Author Members Share Posted December 21, 2023 Former Maryland governor confirmed by US Senate to lead Social Security WASHINGTON — The Social Security Administration will get a new commissioner after the U.S. Senate voted Monday to confirm former Maryland Democratic Gov. Martin O’Malley for the post. https://floridaphoenix.com/2023/12/19/former-maryland-governor-confirmed-by-us-senate-to-lead-social-security/? Quote phkrause By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near. {5T 451.1} Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Members phkrause Posted December 30, 2023 Author Members Share Posted December 30, 2023 Punishing their own but passing few laws, a Congress in chaos leaves much to do in 2024 WASHINGTON (AP) — This Congress started with showy bluster, a bitter 15-round, multi-day spectacle to elect a House speaker, a Republican who vowed to “never quit,” and then did just that. https://apnews.com/article/congress-santos-ukraine-border-mccarthy-speaker-johnson-dda73a13a198293803e386976cf3414d? Quote phkrause By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near. {5T 451.1} Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Members phkrause Posted January 3 Author Members Share Posted January 3 Most Americans realize the planet’s got a big, big problem; but Congress is still full of deniers Humans are stupid, and it’s going to get us all killed. https://floridaphoenix.com/2024/01/02/most-americans-realize-the-planets-got-a-big-big-problem-but-congress-is-still-full-of-deniers/? Quote phkrause By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near. {5T 451.1} Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Members phkrause Posted January 4 Author Members Share Posted January 4 Congress was full of postponements in 2023. Now 2024 could be even less productive. WASHINGTON — Congress got next to nothing done during the past year and could accomplish even less in 2024 as attention shifts to the November elections. https://floridaphoenix.com/2024/01/03/congress-was-full-of-postponements-in-2023-now-2024-could-be-even-less-productive/? Quote phkrause By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near. {5T 451.1} Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Members phkrause Posted January 8 Author Members Share Posted January 8 Congressional leaders announce an agreement on spending levels, a key step to averting shutdown WASHINGTON (AP) — Congressional leaders have reached an agreement on overall spending levels for the current fiscal year that could help avoid a partial government shutdown later this month. https://apnews.com/article/congress-spending-shutdown-5809f29447b250a3902c45098cbd6909? Quote phkrause By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near. {5T 451.1} Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Members phkrause Posted January 9 Author Members Share Posted January 9 ⚡ House GOP lightning round Today brought a flurry of developments involving the House GOP majority and its priorities for the next year: Members of the far-right Freedom Caucus are kicking up a storm over the $1.66 trillion budget agreement reached between Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.). The House Oversight Committee released a resolution recommending Hunter Biden be held in contempt of Congress for failure to comply with a subpoena. Skeptical House Republicans are growing increasingly comfortable with the idea of impeaching Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, with an initial hearing scheduled for Wednesday. Rep. Larry Bucshon (R-Ind.) became the latest House Republican to announce his retirement, joining a flood of other members who made the decision over the holiday break. Meanwhile: California Gov. Gavin Newsom set a March 19 date for the special primary election to fill former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy's (R-Calif.) vacated seat. Quote phkrause By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near. {5T 451.1} Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Members phkrause Posted January 10 Author Members Share Posted January 10 💰 McConnell calls for another stopgap Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) told reporters today that Congress will "obviously" need to pass another short-term spending bill in order to avoid a partial government shutdown on Jan. 19. Why it matters: House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) — who appears to be on a collision course with an increasingly agitated right flank — had previously pledged not to pass another so-called continuing resolution, Axios' Andrew Solender reports. State of play: Johnson and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) reached an agreement over the weekend on government spending levels for 2024, setting the stage for Congress to pass its annual appropriations bills. As McConnell explained, those bills are unlikely to be written and passed by both chambers of Congress in time for the Jan. 19 funding deadline. "The simplest things take a week in the Senate," the GOP leader said. "Frequently, the House doesn't understand how long it takes to get something through the Senate." What we're watching: Johnson, who said in November he is "done with short-term CRs," is taking flak from hardliners who are upset about him agreeing to the spending levels set by the debt ceiling deal negotiated by former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.). Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas) notably didn't rule out trying to oust Johnson in several interviews today. "I'm leaving it on the table. ... I'm not saying I'm not gonna file it tomorrow. I think the speaker needs to know that we're angry about it," Roy told Blaze TV. Quote phkrause By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near. {5T 451.1} Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Members phkrause Posted January 11 Author Members Share Posted January 11 Hunter Biden unexpectedly shows up at his House contempt hearing Hunter Biden made a surprise appearance at a House Oversight Committee hearing on Wednesday geared towards holding him in contempt of Congress. https://www.axios.com/2024/01/10/hunter-biden-contempt-hearing-house-republicans? Quote phkrause By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near. {5T 451.1} Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Members phkrause Posted January 11 Author Members Share Posted January 11 GOP's hurt-Biden agenda The first 10 days of 2024 have pulled back the curtain on the core incentive animating the House GOP's election-year agenda: Don't do anything that could potentially rescue President Biden's dreadful approval rating. Why it matters: Every opposition party strives to be a thorn in the side of the administration in power. But Trump-allied Republicans in Congress appear to be taking their role a step further, stifling any hint of bipartisan compromise while actively pushing to impeach Biden and his top officials. Driving the news: One of Biden's top vulnerabilities is the migrant crisis, an issue that has overwhelmed cities across the country and spurred substantive bipartisan negotiations in the Senate. But while Senate Republicans appear to be working in good faith on a deal to impose new border restrictions, House Republicans are signaling they have no intention of bailing Biden out on his biggest liability. "I will not help the Democrats try to improve this man's dismal approval ratings. I'm not going to do it. Why would I?" Rep. Troy Nehls (R-Texas) told CNN last week. Zoom in: House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has vowed not to support any border compromise that doesn't contain the GOP's hardline H.R. 2 bill, which would codify some of former President Trump's strictest border policies. Johnson told radio host Hugh Hewitt on Wednesday that Republicans would "die on that hill" — despite being well aware the legislation could never pass the Democratic-controlled Senate. In the meantime, House Republicans are plowing ahead on their efforts to impeach both Biden and Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer (R-Ky.) suggested this week that Attorney General Merrick Garland also could be targeted with impeachment if Hunter Biden isn't arrested on contempt charges. Between the lines: Comments Trump made this week crystalize the extremes to which some Republicans appear willing to go to damage Biden ahead of the election. The GOP front-runner predicted in an interview Monday that the economy will crash — and said he hopes it happens on Biden's watch. "When there's a crash, I hope it's going to be during this next 12 months because I don't want to be Herbert Hoover," Trump said, referring to the president who oversaw the onset of the Great Depression. What to watch: Negotiations over the child tax credit (CTC) will be a key litmus test for whether House Republicans are willing to grant Biden any semblance of a legislative victory this year. House and Senate negotiators are inching closer to a deal to resurrect the CTC in exchange for restoring popular business tax benefits, but GOP leadership's lack of involvement in the talks could present a huge obstacle. "I haven't even had a chance to look at it yet," Johnson told CNBC when asked about the potential deal today. Quote phkrause By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near. {5T 451.1} Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Members phkrause Posted January 11 Author Members Share Posted January 11 🔥 Hardliners hijack House vote A group of right-wing House Republicans sabotaged their own party's bills today in protest of a spending deal between Speaker Johnson and Senate Democrats, Axios' Andrew Solender reports. Why it matters: The shock move marks a return to the hardball tactics hardliners employed under former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) to retaliate against bipartisan deals before they ultimately removed him. What they're saying: The vote — which tanked procedural motion to advance a package of GOP measures unrelated to the spending deal — left establishment Republicans and Johnson allies stunned "No words. ... I have no ability to come up with the words to describe where we are," said Rep. Steve Womack (R-Ark.). Another House Republican, asked for their thoughts, told Axios: "I'm out of thoughts." Keep reading Quote phkrause By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near. {5T 451.1} Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Members phkrause Posted January 11 Author Members Share Posted January 11 Speaker Johnson is facing conservative pushback over the spending deal he struck with Democrats WASHINGTON (AP) — As Speaker Mike Johnson gathered House Republicans behind closed doors Wednesday to sell the spending deal he reached with Democrats, one thing quickly became clear: many GOP lawmakers weren’t buying it. https://apnews.com/article/speaker-johnson-conservative-spending-deal-ce8633a03866fe6f4b77fe66a73fc7ec? Quote phkrause By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near. {5T 451.1} Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Members phkrause Posted January 12 Author Members Share Posted January 12 🏛️ New Speaker already facing mutiny Some House Republicans are already expressing buyer's remorse over Speaker Mike Johnson: A dozen right-wing Republicans blocked a package of GOP bills and ground the floor to a halt yesterday in protest of Johnson's spending deal with Senate Democrats, Axios' Andrew Solender reports. It's a repeat of what hardliners did under former Speaker Kevin McCarthy over his bipartisan debt ceiling deal — which ultimately foreshadowed his removal months later through a motion to vacate. Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas) has been flirting with the idea of trying to remove Johnson, saying in a radio interview on Tuesday: "If they totally botch [the appropriations bills] ... I don't know why we would keep him as speaker." A Republican leadership ally described the revolt as a "shot across the bow." Keep reading. Quote phkrause By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near. {5T 451.1} Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Members phkrause Posted January 12 Author Members Share Posted January 12 Johnson's time for choosing House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) is at a career-defining crossroads: Hardline Republicans — a day after sabotaging their own party's bills in a show of force — are pressuring him to renege on a spending deal he struck with Senate Democrats, Axios' Andrew Solender reports. Why it matters: Members of Johnson's own conference are pleading with him to stand firmly behind the deal, warning that a failure to do so could create the same trust issues that led to former Speaker Kevin McCarthy's (R-Calif.) downfall. The risks of reneging include not only a government shutdown on Jan. 19, but the destruction of Johnson's credibility with Democrats — whose votes he will inevitably need for a functioning House. For an inexperienced speaker who's only been in the job for 78 days, the stakes could hardly be higher. Driving the news: A group of right-wing House Republicans responsible for yesterday's rebellion emerged from Johnson's office this morning seemingly under the impression that he had agreed to revisit the spending deal. At issue is the overall level of federal spending: The deal Johnson struck would keep the government funded at 2023 numbers, in line with the budget caps set out in McCarthy's bipartisan debt ceiling deal. House Freedom Caucus Chair Bob Good (R-Va.) said conservatives are pushing for a new proposal that cuts spending, secures the border and ends "the era" of supplemental funding packages. Coming out of the meeting, Johnson told reporters he's been having "thoughtful conversations" but has made "no commitments" — and that "if you hear otherwise, it's just simply not true." Still, his right-wing detractors appear to be placated momentarily: They allowed the same vote they had blocked yesterday to pass this afternoon. What they're saying: "If you touch this, one penny of it, all these quote-unquote 'thoughtful conversations' are going to lead right to a government shutdown, and he himself knows it," Rep. Max Miller (R-Ohio) told Axios. "The speaker either gave his word and made an agreement or he didn't," said Rep. Patrick McHenry (R-N.C.), the chair of the House Financial Services Committee. "And if he gave his word, he's got to fulfill his word." Behind the scenes: One Republican lawmaker told Axios' Juliegrace Brufke that it appears as if the Freedom Caucus is "trying to trip up the speaker to make him a failure." "Johnson is damned if he does and damned if he doesn't. The people who fought hardest for him to get in — the HFC — will likely be his undoing," another GOP lawmaker said. What we're watching: Some of Johnson's most vocal critics on the right have begun a soft but steady drumbeat of hints about introducing a motion to vacate, which would force a vote on removing Johnson as speaker. Most lawmakers don't think Johnson is at immediate risk of removal, but they're nevertheless already strategizing about how he might survive such a vote. Quote phkrause By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near. {5T 451.1} Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Members phkrause Posted January 13 Author Members Share Posted January 13 New turmoil over possible shutdown in D.C. amid warnings of a WIC food program shortfall WASHINGTON — Meetings on Thursday between U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson and conservative lawmakers led to speculation he was about to walk away from the bipartisan spending agreement he signed off on just this past weekend — a decision that would greatly increase the chances of a partial government shutdown next week. https://floridaphoenix.com/2024/01/11/new-turmoil-over-possible-shutdown-in-d-c-amid-warnings-of-a-wic-food-program-shortfall/? Another stopgap spending bill in the works as Congress struggles to avert shutdown WASHINGTON — Congress on Wednesday appeared to be on track to pass a third deadline extension for at least some of the government funding bills that were supposed to become law more than three months ago — putting off a potential government shutdown. https://floridaphoenix.com/2024/01/11/another-stopgap-spending-bill-in-the-works-as-congress-struggles-to-avert-shutdown/? Country music singer ‘Jelly Roll’ pleads with Congress to act on fentanyl crisis WASHINGTON — Country music star Jason “Jelly Roll” DeFord stepped out of the recording studio and into a Capitol Hill hearing room on Thursday to urge Congress to take action to curb both the supply of illicit fentanyl and the demand for it. https://floridaphoenix.com/2024/01/11/country-music-singer-jelly-roll-pleads-with-congress-to-act-on-fentanyl-crisis/? Quote phkrause By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near. {5T 451.1} Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Members phkrause Posted January 17 Author Members Share Posted January 17 Families get hope Illustration: Shoshana Gordon/Axios American families could get a surprise economic boost if Congress moves on a $78 billion tax deal reached by House and Senate committee leaders, Axios' Emily Peck writes. Why it matters: An expansion of the federal child tax credit, which is included in the package, could lift as many as a half-million kids out of poverty, according to an estimate from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. 💥 What's happening: Top lawmakers unveiled a bipartisan agreement today to expand and restore multiple tax breaks, Axios' Juliegrace Brufke writes. The bill faces an uphill battle in the House but would make it so millions more lower-income parents get a meaningful tax refund. 🔎 Zoom in: Under the current law, parents can claim the credit on their taxes — up to $2,000 per child. But the tax credit now largely benefits middle- and higher-earning households. Lower-income parents who don't owe taxes can't get that amount as a cash refund. There are 19 million children who are getting less than $2,000 because their families' incomes are too low. The bottom line: Passing anything in this current Congress has proved to be a real challenge. The government is still on track for a shutdown at the end of this week absent a deal to pass a short-term spending bill. Keep reading ... Quote phkrause By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near. {5T 451.1} Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Members phkrause Posted January 17 Author Members Share Posted January 17 💰 Schumer backs bipartisan tax deal Children and families take advantage of the biggest snowfall in two years in the Washington, D.C., area to sled on a hill in front of the U.S. Capitol today. Photo: Kent Nishimura/Getty Images Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) threw his support behind a $78 billion bipartisan tax agreement that would expand the Child Tax Credit and restore tax breaks for businesses. Why it matters: The deal negotiated by House and Senate tax writers could lift as many as a half-million kids out of poverty, according to an estimate from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. The tax package faces long odds in the House, however, given that the GOP majority is already struggling to pass key priorities like government funding and aid to Ukraine. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has not yet weighed in on the tax deal and may be reluctant to endorse a bill that would add to the deficit. Go deeper Quote phkrause By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near. {5T 451.1} Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Members phkrause Posted January 18 Author Members Share Posted January 18 Lawmakers announce bipartisan effort to enhance child tax credit, revive tax breaks for businesses WASHINGTON (AP) — The chairmen of the top tax policy committees in Congress announced a bipartisan agreement Tuesday to enhance the child tax credit and revive a variety of tax breaks for businesses, a combination designed to attract support from lawmakers of both political parties. https://apnews.com/article/congress-child-tax-credit-businesses-6bda34719ea22c7683e4335a21583e85? Quote phkrause By the decree enforcing the institution of the papacy in violation of the law of God, our nation will disconnect herself fully from righteousness. When Protestantism shall stretch her hand across the gulf to grasp the hand of the Roman power, when she shall reach over the abyss to clasp hands with spiritualism, when, under the influence of this threefold union, our country shall repudiate every principle of its Constitution as a Protestant and republican government, and shall make provision for the propagation of papal falsehoods and delusions, then we may know that the time has come for the marvelous working of Satan and that the end is near. {5T 451.1} Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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