Why are Republicans trying to give themselves an edge in Congress? In the words of one GOP lawmaker: “Because we can.” This week, Rachel and Aaron separate the facts from JD Vance’s alt reality as some Democrats prepare to fight fire with fire. Plus: Trump takes federal control over Washington DC. And South Park sends up America’s most notorious puppy killer.

LINKS:

* YouTube: President Trump holds news conference on plans to address D.C. crime

* Gavin Newsom to Trump: ‘You Are Playing With Fire’

* The Cycle (Substack): Appeasement Didn’t Work Then; It Won’t Work Now

The Cycle- On Substack is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Get full access to The Cycle- On Substack at thecycle.substack.com/subscribe