Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies - The Beltway Briefing Cozen O'Connor Public Strategies

The presidents of Harvard, Penn and MIT refused this week to declare in congressional testimony that calling for the genocide of Jews constitutes harassment under their codes of conduct. Their failure to do so supports the GOP narrative about biased institutions. Meanwhile, the economy continues to chug along but companies still struggle to find workers. Featuring CPS’ Howard Schweitzer, Mark Alderman, Patrick Martin, and Towner French.

The US House of Representatives expels New York Congressman George Santos. Meanwhile on the campaign trail, support continues to coalesce around Nikki Haley. To be seen as a strong alternative to the former president, Haley must master a balancing act between the party's conservatives and moderates. Featuring CPS' Howard Schweitzer, Mark Alderman, Towner French and Kaitlyn Martin.

In the midst of heated debates and elbows, Congress kicks the “government funding can” down the road by passing a laddered continuing resolution (CR), allowing the government to stay open over the holidays and punting funding negotiations into the new year. Looking ahead to 2024 retirements, redistricting and aspirations for higher office, Washington braces itself for high turnover and a competitive race for control of both chambers. Featuring CPS’ Patrick Martin, Towner French and Kaitlyn Martin.

On Tuesday, Democrats had major wins in Kentucky, Ohio, Virginia, and New Jersey, centered on abortion access. Yet the blue wave appears to be leaving President Joe Biden behind – his low approval rating coupled with concerning polls has some Democrats questioning whether he is the party’s most viable candidate in 2024. Featuring CPS’ Howard Schweitzer, Patrick Martin, Kaitlyn Martin, Heidi Hertz, and Michael Acevedo.

As the new speaker moves forward with an Israeli aid package, antisemitism is spreading across the globe. Meanwhile in the 2024 Republican presidential primary, Donald Trump’s façade begins to crumble under the weight of mounting indictments, positioning Nikki Haley as a formidable alternative to the former president. Featuring CPS’ Howard Schweitzer, Patrick Martin, and Towner French.

A constitutional lawyer, cultural conservative, and all around “nice guy.” Meet the new Speaker of the US House of Representatives, Mike Johnson. As the House begins governing again, lawmakers must recognize how heightened political polarization leaves the nation vulnerable to national security threats demonstrated by Israel in the Oct 7th Hamas terror attack. Featuring CPS’ Howard Schweitzer, Patrick Martin, Hon. Rodney Davis, and Kaitlyn Martin.