The Enduring Grift of the Washington Operator The Enduring Grift of the Washington Operator
A new book argues that D.C. became a swamp in the Trump years, but like any company town it has always been a hive of influence peddling, self-dealing, and graft.
Jun 12, 2023 / Books & the Arts / Chris Lehmann
Next Time, Dammit, Just Default Next Time, Dammit, Just Default
Democrats feared a monster called “default”—but it’s just another Washington scare story.
Jun 9, 2023 / James K. Galbraith for The Nation
Once More, the Washington Debt Ceiling Ritual Ends in a Lousy Deal Once More, the Washington Debt Ceiling Ritual Ends in a Lousy Deal
What cuts there are come in all the wrong places.
Jun 5, 2023 / Katrina vanden Heuvel
Here’s Why Principled Progressives Opposed a Cruel and Destructive Debt Ceiling Deal Here’s Why Principled Progressives Opposed a Cruel and Destructive Debt Ceiling Deal
These Democrats defied their president and their party leaders to vote against a deal that harms families, the poor, and the environment.
Jun 2, 2023 / John Nichols
Dianne Feinstein’s Final Act Dianne Feinstein’s Final Act
The California senator’s return to Congress amounts to a sad end to an illustrious career.
Jun 2, 2023 / Sasha Abramsky
Two Decades Later, We Still Know Too Little About the Government’s Torture Program Two Decades Later, We Still Know Too Little About the Government’s Torture Program
Attempts to keep that blindfold in place in the name of “national security” have helped sustain darkness over light.
Jun 1, 2023 / Karen J. Greenberg
The Debt Deal Is a Tragedy The Debt Deal Is a Tragedy
The debt-limit agreement entrenches long-term austerity. It was a huge GOP win.
May 30, 2023 / James K. Galbraith
The Courts’ Legitimacy Crisis Is an Opportunity Democrats Should Seize The Courts’ Legitimacy Crisis Is an Opportunity Democrats Should Seize
Calling out corrupt judges and reactionary courts is good policy—and good politics.
The Reagan-Era Roots of Democratic Budget Appeasement The Reagan-Era Roots of Democratic Budget Appeasement
How the Center on Budget Policy and Priorities has conducted budget negotiations in a defensive crouch
May 24, 2023 / Max Moran
John Fetterman’s Public Battle With Depression Is Shattering Stigma John Fetterman’s Public Battle With Depression Is Shattering Stigma
The Pennsylvania senator’s decisions to temporarily step away from Congress and to discuss his mental health will save lives.
May 24, 2023 / Philip Eil