Rep. Rosa DeLauro on Congressional Chaos

In this episode of The Al Franken Podcast, guest host Norm Ornstein interviews Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro, a veteran Democratic lawmaker from Connecticut and former chair of the House Appropriations Committee. The conversation centers on the escalating chaos in Washington, particularly under the current administration, with DeLauro condemning the war in the Middle East as a reckless 'war of choice' driven by impulsive decision-making and lacking strategic coherence. She highlights the administration's failure to follow through on diplomatic opportunities, the devastating economic consequences—including soaring gas prices, food shortages, and disruptions to industries like fishing and aviation—and the erosion of democratic norms through the abuse of executive power, including attempts to bypass Congress via reconciliation and undermine the War Powers Act. DeLauro also denounces the appointment of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Health and Human Services, calling him a 'serial liar' whose actions are endangering public health through vaccine misinformation and the suppression of scientific evidence. She calls for aggressive legislative resistance, public awareness campaigns, and even impeachment as tools to expose and counteract the administration's harmful policies. The episode ends on a note of cautious hope, emphasizing the importance of holding power accountable and the need for a strong Democratic response in the upcoming elections.