Welcome to The Daily Politic Briefing! Good morning and thank you for joining us on this edition of The Daily Politic Briefing, where we bring you the most significant political developments from Washington and beyond. Today, we'll be diving into the intricate workings of Capitol Hill as lawmakers navigate crucial legislation, leadership tensions, and international policy decisions that will shape the weeks ahead. Today's Headlines In today's briefing, we'll examine the internal GOP conflict as Senator Rand Paul finds himself sidelined from border security negotiations. We'll also explore the procedural challenges of the Senate's megabill, escalating leadership tensions within Republican ranks, and Democratic opposition strategies. Additionally, we'll cover the administration's Iran policy deliberations, House committee leadership races, and significant policy impacts related to clean energy and TikTok regulation. GOP Internal Tensions Over Border Security Republicans are making the unusual move of sidelining Senator Rand Paul from border security funding negotiations, despite his chairmanship of the Senate Homeland Security Committee. Budget Chair Lindsey Graham has stepped in as lead negotiator for border wall construction, with Senator Lankford handling government affairs provisions. This sidelining comes after Paul proposed funding border security at a fraction of what the administration requested. Graham didn't mince words, stating, "Senator Paul usually votes 'no' and blames everybody else for not being pure enough. As chairman, you don't have that luxury sometimes." The Senate Megabill's Procedural Hurdles The Senate's massive reconciliation bill is currently undergoing the "Byrd bath" process, where Senate rule-keeper Elizabeth MacDonough reviews which provisions comply with budget reconciliation rules. Republicans are particularly anxious about whether they can use "current policy baseline" accounting to make extending Trump's 2017 tax cuts appear cost-neutral. Other provisions under scrutiny include tax cuts on gun silencers, the "revenge tax" on foreign companies, and prohibitions on AI regulation. The procedural review will significantly shape the final legislation that emerges for a vote. Leadership Challenges for Senate GOP Senate Majority Leader John Thune is facing resistance over the megabill from within his own party. Senator Josh Hawley is pushing to modify language on provider taxes, warning that the Senate's proposed reduction won't satisfy House Republicans who preferred a freeze. Despite speaking "nearly daily" with former President Trump, Thune faces skepticism about meeting the July 4th deadline. Senator Tuberville puts the chances at just "50/50," highlighting the precarious timeline for this massive legislative package. Democrats Rally Opposition Senate Democrats are mounting a coordinated response to Republican proposals. Led by Chuck Schumer, they're criticizing potential changes to healthcare and food assistance programs. In a letter to Thune, they warned: "If enacted, these cuts to food assistance and health care will mean widespread hardship for Americans." Democrats are scheduled to hold a strategy call to prepare for floor action, signaling an organized opposition as the megabill moves forward. Iran Policy at a Crossroads The administration has set a two-week deadline to decide on potential military action against Iran amid escalating tensions with Israel. Senate Democrats are demanding more information and a clear strategy before any American military involvement. Senator Tim Kaine's resolution requiring congressional approval for military action will be eligible for vote next Friday, potentially forcing a clarification of the administration's intentions toward Iran. House Committee Leadership Race In the House, Representative Robert Garcia has emerged as the frontrunner to become the top Democrat on the Oversight Committee. He's focusing on his contributions and e