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    What’s happening in Congress is not normal

    enSeptember 19, 2023

    Podcast Summary

    • Marine Corps orders safety stand-down after series of aviation incidentsRecent aviation incidents in the Marine Corps, including the loss of an $80 million F-35 jet, have led to a safety stand-down and intensive search efforts.

      There has been a series of aviation incidents in the Marine Corps, including the recent loss of an $80 million F-35 jet. Despite an extensive search, the plane has yet to be found. Acting Marine Corps Commandant Eric Smith has ordered a safety stand-down in response to these incidents. The F-35 jet's disappearance, which cost 80 million dollars, has left many puzzled, with some speculating that it might be at the bottom of a lake. The incident comes after other aviation mishaps in the Marine Corps, such as the crash of an F-18 and an NB-22 with 20 people on board, resulting in tragic losses of life.

    • Political gridlock causing challenges for military and governmentPolitical paralysis in DC is causing significant delays and challenges for various sectors of the government, including the military. It's crucial for individuals to engage in their democracy and put pressure on their representatives to address these issues.

      The current political gridlock in Washington, D.C. is causing significant delays and challenges for various sectors of the government, including the military. The ongoing stand down in the Marine Corps, caused by the lack of confirmation of the new acting chief of naval operations, is just one example of the larger issue. The government's inability to pass funding bills and the potential for an impeachment trial are further exacerbating the situation. This crisis was predicted, but the lack of action from elected officials is causing damage to important areas of the government. It is crucial for individuals to engage in their democracy and put pressure on their representatives to address these issues. The media can also play a role by accurately framing the problem and identifying the root causes. In short, it's time for action to end the political paralysis and get the government back on track.

    • Government shutdowns impact federal workforce recruitment and retentionPolitical standoffs between parties lead to shutdowns, making it harder for federal workers to maintain job security and stability, allowing private employers to attract skilled workers away.

      The ongoing political standoff between the Republican Party and the Democratic Party, specifically in the form of government shutdowns, significantly impacts the federal workforce and their recruitment and retention. The discussion revolved around how these shutdowns make it easier for private employers to lure skilled workers away from the federal workforce due to job security and stability. However, it's essential to acknowledge that both parties use the tools at their disposal to achieve their political goals, even if it comes at the expense of the country's overall well-being. In theory, our form of government, a representative democracy, grants us the power to elect representatives to make decisions on our behalf. However, it's crucial for the press to report truthfully and inform the public about the situation at hand. In the current political climate, the inability of the Republican-led House to govern effectively and make the government function has led to numerous shutdowns, causing uncertainty and instability for the federal workforce and the country as a whole.

    • Challenging Political Norms: Progress or Disorder?Historical norms should not be the sole guideline for forward-looking behavior, especially for marginalized communities. Balancing decorum and progress towards justice is essential.

      While adhering to historical norms and decorum in politics is important, there are situations where deviating from them becomes necessary for progress and achieving political goals. However, it's essential to consider the implications of such actions and ensure that the system remains functional. The speaker argues that historical norms should not be the sole guideline for forward-looking behavior, especially for marginalized communities who have made significant progress by challenging norms. The debate over whether to uphold or upend norms ultimately comes down to whose perspective is prioritized and whose voice is being heard. As a society, we must strive to find a balance between maintaining decorum and making progress towards justice.

    • The importance of accepting election results and respecting the rule of lawThe peaceful transition of power in the US depends on respecting election results and upholding the rule of law, a tradition currently being challenged.

      The peaceful transitions of power and respect for the rule of law in the United States have been maintained because people have adhered to the norms of accepting election results, regardless of personal feelings. However, this tradition is being challenged now, and the conversation around this issue is crucial. Tomorrow, we will discuss Bidenomics and the politics of the economy with political economist Mark Blythe. It's essential to understand these complex topics and how they impact our world. For kids, navigating the confusing world of money can be challenging. Million Bazillion, a Webby-winning podcast from Marketplace, offers exciting adventures to answer their awkward and complex questions about money. Tune in to help your kids understand how money fits into the world around us.

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