In this episode, Bill speaks with congressional scholar Norm Ornstein about the deteriorating state of the United States Congress. They discuss the book Ornstein co-authored 13 years ago, 'It's Even Worse Than It Looks,' focusing on how the Republican party has evolved into an 'insurgent outlier.' Ornstein shares his personal history working in the Senate since 1970, citing a loss of 'institutional patriotism' among Republicans and their complete subordination to Donald Trump. He criticizes current congressional leadership, particularly Mike Johnson, and highlights issues like the Senate’s blind approval of Trump nominees and the failure of effective oversight. Ornstein also addresses the implications of a government shutdown, the misuse of the Justice Department for political retribution, and the need for an effective Democratic response. He ends on a somber note, comparing current political dynamics to the erosion of democratic norms seen in history, suggesting that the road to recovery is uncertain and fraught with challenges. (No kidding.)

Norman Ornstein is a political scientist, co-host of the podcast “Words Matter,” and author of books, including “It’s Even Worse Than It Looks: How the American Constitutional System Collided with the New Politics of Extremism.”

Today Bill highlights the work of one of his favorite morning reads, The Bulwark. A great website and media company founded by Never-Trump Republicans which is at the forefront of The Resistance. You can check it out at TheBulwark.com.

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