House Democrats are creating replica plaques to honor police officers who defended the Capitol on Jan. 6, criticizing the delay in installing the official plaque mandated by law, and are pushing for its installation through legislative efforts and public displays, while also addressing other political and legislative issues.
House Democratic leadership is urging members to vote against a bipartisan bill that would create 63 new federal judgeships, fearing it would allow President-elect Trump to appoint more conservative judges. The JUDGES Act, which passed the Senate unanimously, is now facing opposition in the House, with Democrats concerned about its implications under a Trump administration. The Biden administration has also indicated a veto if the bill passes. The bill requires a simple majority to pass in the House, but overriding a potential veto would need a two-thirds majority, which seems unlikely given the Democratic opposition.
Momentum is growing among House Democrats to replace Rep. David Scott as the ranking member of the Agriculture Committee, reflecting a broader generational shift within the party. Scott, who has faced health challenges and criticism over his leadership, is being challenged by Reps. Jim Costa and Angie Craig. The decision may hinge on the Steering Committee's recommendation, with influential figures like Nancy Pelosi backing Costa. The push to replace older leaders follows the party's disappointing election results, with many Democrats seeking new leadership to address upcoming legislative challenges.
President Biden's decision to pardon his son Hunter has intensified tensions with House Democrats, many of whom are frustrated with his leadership and the impact of his delayed exit from the 2024 presidential race on Vice President Harris' campaign. While some Democrats defend Biden's overall record, the pardon has been a significant point of contention, with over half of House Democrats reportedly upset by the move. The situation reflects broader dissatisfaction and a desire among some lawmakers to move on from Biden's presidency.
Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.) defeated Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) in a decisive 152 to 59 vote to retain her role as chair of the Democratic Policy and Communications Committee, a key position in shaping the party's political messaging. Despite Crockett's appeal as a modern media-savvy candidate, her last-minute campaign failed to unseat the well-established Dingell, who had secured support over several months. The election was the only contested leadership role within House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries' team, highlighting internal dynamics as Democrats seek to refine their messaging strategy.
Rep. Jasmine Crockett, a rising Democratic star known for her TV appearances, is challenging incumbent Debbie Dingell for the chair of the Democratic Policy and Communications Committee. Despite her communication skills, Crockett faces an uphill battle due to Dingell's established support and Crockett's late entry into the race. The contest highlights a broader debate within the party about messaging strategies following the 2024 election losses, with some advocating for fresh approaches and younger leadership.
House Democrats released a report showing that the Chinese government and its state-controlled entities spent over $5.5 million at Trump-owned properties during his presidency, the most from any foreign country. The payments raise concerns about potential efforts to influence the former president, especially since Trump did not divest from his businesses upon taking office. The report also highlights that Trump did not impose sanctions on a Chinese bank that was a tenant in Trump Tower, despite its alleged involvement in helping North Korea evade US sanctions. The Chinese government insists it requires Chinese companies to comply with local laws and regulations overseas. The Trump Organization has not yet commented on the findings.
House Democrats released a report revealing that Donald Trump's businesses received at least $7.8 million from foreign governments during his presidency, with the largest payments coming from China and Saudi Arabia. The report, titled "White House For Sale," was produced by the House Oversight Committee and highlights potential violations of the Constitution's Emoluments Clause. The findings contrast with Republican efforts to investigate President Biden and his family for alleged influence peddling, which have not demonstrated any financial benefit to Biden. The report calls for new disclosure rules and formal procedures for officials to seek congressional consent for retaining wealth from foreign entities.
House Democrats released a report alleging that former President Donald Trump received at least $7.8 million from foreign governments during his presidency, potentially violating the Constitution's Foreign Emoluments Clause. The report, which is the result of a nearly seven-year investigation, accuses Trump of profiting from his business empire through payments from countries such as China, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. The investigation's findings are considered incomplete due to the halting of the probe by House Republicans. The report also suggests that Trump's foreign policy decisions may have been influenced by these financial dealings.