Congressional Republicans Try a New Approach: Telling Trump No
Jun 8, 2026
Summary
NYT Congressional Editor Julie Davis discusses a rare rebellion by Republican lawmakers against President Trump’s second-term agenda. Frustrated by his interference in primaries and a proposed fund to compensate political allies, GOP members blocked the fund and joined Democrats to pass war powers resolutions regarding Iran. While this pushback stems from midterm election concerns, Davis suggests it may be a temporary shift rather than a permanent break in party loyalty.
Topics discussed
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Introduction: Republican Congress rebelling against Trump
From subservience to resistance: The shift in GOP behavior
Primary interventions: Trump vs. Cassidy and Cornyn
The weaponization fund controversy and immigration bill standoff
GOP demands disavowal of the fund; court ruling intervenes
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War powers resolution: GOP defections on Iran conflict
The 'YOLO Caucus': Lame ducks and swing district Republicans
Durability of the rebellion: Immigration bill passage and amendments
Trump's interview response and Iran missile exchange update
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