Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. will face Congress for the first time in more than six months on Thursday with his autonomy and political influence in a very different place. Why it matters: As the White House tries to reel in his agenda, Kennedy is expected to face a gauntlet of questions about vaccines, autism and other hot-button issues at the first of seven hearings over this week and next. - It will be a test of how well Kennedy can stay on message as the Trump administration tries to pivot away from controversies and emphasize priorities like lowering drug prices. Driving the news: Kennedy will appear before the House Ways and Means and Appropriations committees on Thursday before heading to Senate hearings next week. -…
Rep. Tom Cole joins Chris Stirewalt on The Hill Sunday to discuss the war with Iran, warning Democrats against using shutdowns or funding fights during wartime. Cole argues that once U.S. troops are committed to combat, Congress has a responsibility to give them the resources they need to stay safe and succeed even if lawmakers disagree with the mission. He points to past conflicts where he supported funding under Democratic presidents for that reason.
On The Hill Sunday, Chris Stirewalt speaks with Rep. Adam Smith, Rep. Tom Cole, and retired Gen. John Teichert about the growing war with Iran. Smith warns Congress may ultimately need to cut funding to end the conflict and raises concerns about China helping Iran resupply. Cole argues that once troops are deployed, Congress must ensure they have the resources to succeed. Teichert also cautions that the U.S. doesn’t have unlimited weapons stockpiles and must rapidly expand advanced manufacturing to keep up with wartime demand.
The House on Thursday rejected an effort to advance legislation that would restrict President Trump from using further military action in Iran . Why it matters: The failed vote amounts to an endorsement of Trump's military campaign in Iran from Congress, which has the constitutional authority to declare war. - The 212-219 vote comes one day after the Senate rejected a similar measure, mainly along party lines. - Two Republicans — Reps. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) and Warren Davison (R-Ohio) — voted with the majority of Democrats in support of the measure. - Four Democrats voted against it. Between the lines: A handful of Democrats are backing a resolution that would give the Trump administration more leeway, directing the president…
