Mitch McConnell and Our Very Old Congress
Summary
Host Jane Coaston discusses the aging of Congress with Atlantic writer Idris Calhoun, focusing on Senator Mitch McConnell’s health mystery and the political incentives keeping elderly lawmakers in power. The episode also covers Maine Senate candidate Graham Plattner’s withdrawal amid sexual assault allegations, escalating U.S.-Iran military tensions, and criticism of FBI Director Kash Patel’s use of taxpayer funds.
Topics discussed
Intro: Congress as a nursing home and James Greer's tariff comments
Graham Plattner withdraws from Maine Senate race amid assault allegations
U.S. and Iran exchange airstrikes; Trump's mixed messaging on ceasefire
FBI Director Kash Patel faces scrutiny over taxpayer-funded lifestyle
David Hearn pleads not guilty to felony charge for touching Reflecting Pool
Interview: Mitch McConnell's health mystery and the aging of Congress
Ad breaks: Z-Biotics, OneSkin, CrookedCon, and Zyrtec
Interview: Why voters keep electing older politicians and the rise of gerontocracy
Outro: Strict Scrutiny promo, credits, and final ad breaks
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