My Citizen Legislators, the hits keep coming about the Supreme Court.  Today I want to discuss the recent lapses of members of the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS).  ProPublica is an independent, nonprofit newsroom that produces investigative journalism with a moral force.  According to the ProPublica website, its mission is – To expose abuses of power and betrayals of the public trust by government, business, and other institutions, using the moral force of investigative journalism to spur reform through the sustained spotlighting of wrongdoing. ProPublica investigating stories have shed sunshine on how members of SCOTUS have crossed the ethical line, and the integrity of the court is in question.  The Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing on Supreme Court Ethics Reform on May 2, 2023.  Witnesses testifying at the hearing were: The Honorable Jeremy FogelExecutive Director, Berkeley Judicial Institute and Former U.S. District Judge for the Northern District of CAUniversity of California, Berkeley Law SchoolWashington, D.C.Kedric PayneVice President, General Counsel, & Senior Director of EthicsCampaign Legal CenterWashington, D.C.Amanda FrostJohn A. Ewald Jr. Research Professor of LawUniversity of Virginia School of LawCharlottesville, VAThe Honorable Michael B. MukaseyFormer United States Attorney General and Former U.S. District Judge for the Southern District of NYNew York, NYThomas H. Dupree Jr.Partner and Co-Chair of the Appellate and Constitutional Law Practice GroupGibson, Dunn & CrutcherWashington, D.C.Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman, Senator Richard Durbin (D-IL) invited SCOTUS Chief Justice John Roberts to testify and he declined.  He called such testimony by chief justice’s was “exceedingly rare”.   Forbes.com  Here Are The Recent Controversies Supreme Court Justices Have Been Caught Up In—As Senate Hears Case For Code Of EthicsKEY FACTSThe Senate committee will hold a hearing on Supreme Court ethics reform with a panel of legal experts, after committee chair Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) invited Chief Justice John Roberts to testify at the hearing and he declined.Lawmakers have renewed their push for a binding ethics code—which the justices do not have, unlike lower federal judges—following ProPublica reports detailing Justice Clarence Thomas’ dealings with GOP megadonor Harlan Crow, whom Thomas has reportedly accepted gifts and luxury travel from for years without disclosing it as federal law requires.Crow also purchased real estate in Savannah, Georgia, from Thomas in 2014—including the home where the justice’s mother reportedly still lives—ProPublica reported, which was also not disclosed as required.Thomas has also drawn significant controversy over his wife, Ginni Thomas’ right-wing activism, particularly as she supported efforts to overturn the 2020 election as Thomas heard cases on it, and the justice has been

My Citizen Legislators.  CNN went full Jerry Springer on Wednesday, May 10, 2023, by hosting a Town Hall meeting for former President Donald Trump at Saint Anselm College in New Hampshire. The town hall was moderated by Kaitlin Collins.I didn’t watch the town hall meeting for a variety of reasons.  I knew Trump was going to go all in on spewing lies about the 2020 election, January 6, 2021 – the insurrection.  CNN Chief Chris Licht defended his decision to give Trump the opportunity to spew his lies.  He basically said CNN did a public service to the nation because Trump is a leading contender for the presidency in 2024.  Three million people watched this spectacle.  CNN didn’t do this for the good of the nation; they did it for ratings, money, and for the good of CNN.On top of that, Anderson Cooper made condescending remarks defending CNN, praising Kaitlin Collins and basically saying Americans shouldn’t silo themselves from only listening to folks they agree with.  The majority of Americans don’t live in a silo; they are fully aware of Trump and his MAGA cult followers.   Trump received 46.9 percent of the vote in 2020 and lost the popular vote by over  7 million votes.  He may possibly win in 2024, that’s why my Citizen Legislators must resist, fight and mobilize.Thank you for the opportunity to share my knowledge and love of politics.  I look forward to geeking out with you again.Politico.com: Enough With the Bellyaching Over CNN’s Trump Town HallTheHill.com: Trump shares fake video of Anderson Cooper reacting to CNN town hallRollingStone.com: CNN Is Hosting a Town Hall for a Guy Who Tried to Get Me KilledCNN.com: READ: Transcript of CNN’s town hall with former President Donald TrumpNewsweek.com: Biden Mocks Trump After CNN Town HallHuffpost.com: Joe Scarborough Scorches 'Most Shocking' Part Of Donald Trump's CNN Town HallCNN.com: Anderson Cooper addresses criticism about Trump town hallTheHill.com: Frustration at CNN boils over with Trump town hall         Vox.com: A second Trump administration would be much worse CNN.com: Profile Kaitlan Collins Anchor and Chief CorrespondentVariety.com: Kaitlan Collins Expected to...

My Citizen Legislators, May 2, 2023 will live infamy.  House Democrats unveiling a master stroke of utilizing a legislative maneuver – the discharge petition.  Let me set the stage for you, my Citizen Legislators.  On January 30, 2023, Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA-10) quietly introduced H.R. 626, the Breaking Gridlock Act.  He did not issue a press release or make a floor statement on the introduction of the bill.  H.R. 626 was referred to twenty congressional committees.  The Congressional Research Service bill summary of H.R. 626 is as follows:This bill addresses a wide variety of issues, ranging from raising grandchildren to earthquake hazards reduction, to underrepresented groups in cancer trials to telehealth, and fighting Boko Haram in Nigeria.Specifically, the bill establishes a Federal Task Force to Support Grandparents Raising Grandchildren.With respect to earthquake hazards reduction, the billreauthorizes the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program;reduces the frequency of reporting by the Interagency Coordinating Committee on Earthquake Hazards Reduction;modifies the responsibilities of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the U.S. Geological Survey, and the National Science Foundation; anddirects the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to review federal earthquake hazard risk reduction efforts.The bill also (1) reauthorizes the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, and (2) restores certain amounts withheld for tax purposes from severance payments to veterans with combat-related injuries.The GAO must review actions federal agencies have taken to address barriers to participation in federally funded cancer clinical trials by populations that have been traditionally underrepresented in such trials.The Department of State and the Department of Defense must jointly develop and submit to Congress a five-year strategy to help enable the government of Nigeria, members of the Multinational Joint Task Force to Combat Boko Haram authorized by the African Union, and relevant partners to counter the regional threat of Boko Haram.The bill makes supplemental appropriations for the Telehealth Resource Center of the Federal Office of Rural Health Policy of the Office for the Advancement of Telehealth.Now you’re asking yourselves, what the hell does this have to do with the debt ceiling.  Well, in the House of Representatives, under Rule XV, any member may file a discharge petition with the Clerk of the House once the committee has had a measure for more than thirty days (remember H.R. 626 was introduced on January 30, 2023). According to Congressional Procedure, A Practical Guide to the Legislative Process in the U.S. Congress by Richard A. Arenber, a discharge petition must reference only one measure, not multiple pieces of legislation. While discharge petitions are sometimes threatened by the minority, success requires the petition to be signed by a majority of the House (normally 218 members) and therefore is exceedingly rare.  Once the necessary signatures appear on a discharge petition, a motion to discharge is placed on the House’s Discharge Calendar.  Any member who signed the petition is eligible under the rules to offer the motion on the floor, although such motions are restricted to a “discharge day,” which occurs only on the second and fourth Monday of each month. If a majority votes for the motion when it is brought up on discharge day, the measure is brought to the floor.  Since the House is a majoritarian body, a successful discharge petition is considered a rebuke to the Speaker, the majority leadership, and the powerful Rules Committee.  Members of the majority are expected to follow the leadership on procedural votes.A successful use of a discharge petition in the House is very rare. The last discharge motion...

How Do The Democrats Solve A Problem Like Senator Dianne FeinsteinWelcome back to Topless Government. This show is a cross between Schoolhouse Rock and civics for the masses.  I want to make this show relatable and fun for everyone who would like to know how YOUR government works.  Remember knowledge is power!  So let’s get started.I am the host, Crystal Ellerbe.  I live, breathe, eat, and sleep politics.  I’ve done two tours of duty in the US Senate and one tour of duty in the US House.  I had the privilege of working in state and local governments, corporate America and several lobbying firms in Washington, DC.This is the SECOND SEASON OF TOPLESS GOVERNMENT and I’ll be discussing topics that have been top of mind to everyone, providing an insight on how YOUR government works.  As always I would be pleased if you would subscribe, rate, share, and review the show.This was Topless Government, the government and politics show.  If you enjoyed it, I would be pleased if you would subscribe, rate and review the show.  We’re on YouTube and Facebook right now.  Production is courtesy of Marcus Donovan, the Pasteurized Chief.  You can check out his show – the District of Misfits Show – every Sunday evening.  They go live at 10pm.  This show is a District Dogface Studios Production.  Thank you for the opportunity to share my knowledge and love of politics.  I look forward to geeking out with you again.Business Insider: Dianne Feinstein's ongoing absence allowed Senate Republicans and Joe Manchin to overturn a Biden rule reducing pollution from large trucksPolitico.com: Feinstein’s condition sparks concern she won’t return to the Senate  FiveThirtyEight.com: Why Dianne Feinstein Might Actually Have To ResignVox.com: The uproar over Dianne Feinstein, explainedNPR.org: Republicans block effort to replace Feinstein on Judiciary panelRollcall.com: Replacing Feinstein can be complicated, Senate history shows

Welcome back to Topless Government. This show is a cross between Schoolhouse Rock and civics for the masses.  I want to make this show relatable and fun for everyone who would like to know how YOUR government works.  Remember knowledge is power!  So let’s get started.I am the host, Crystal Ellerbe.  I live, breathe, eat, and sleep politics.  I’ve done two tours of duty in the US Senate and one tour of duty in the US House.  I had the privilege of working in state and local governments, corporate America and several lobbying firms in Washington, DC.This is the SECOND SEASON OF TOPLESS GOVERNMENT and I’ll be discussing topics that have been top of mind to everyone, providing an insight on how YOUR government works.  As always I would be pleased if you would subscribe, rate, share, and review the share Topless Government, the government and politics show.  If you enjoyed it, I would be pleased if you would subscribe, rate and review the show.  We’re on YouTube and Facebook right now.  Production is courtesy of Marcus Donovan, the Pasteurized Chief.  You can check out his show – the District of Misfits Show – every Sunday evening.  They go live at 10pm.  This show is a District Dogface Studios Production.  Thank you for the opportunity to share my knowledge and love of politics.  I look forward to geeking out with you again.The Hill.com: Political party time: 2023’s White House Correspondents’ dinner events Axios DC.com: What's happening during White House Correspondents' Dinner Weekend 2023Deadline.com: White House Correspondents’ Dinner: What’s Happening & Who’s Attending D.C.’s Biggest Weekend Of Pop And PoliticsWhite House Correspondents' Association

House GOP Debt Limit Bill Wreaking Havoc on Our EconomyWelcome back to Topless Government. This show is a cross between Schoolhouse Rock and civics for the masses. I want to make this show relatable and fun for everyone who would like to know how YOUR government works. Remember knowledge is power! So let’s get started.I am the host, Crystal Ellerbe. I live, breathe, eat, and sleep politics. I’ve done two tours of duty in the US Senate and one tour of duty in the US House. I had the privilege of working in state and local governments, corporate America and several lobbying firms in Washington, DC.This is the SECOND SEASON OF TOPLESS GOVERNMENT and I’ll be discussing topics that have been top of mind to everyone, providing an insight on how YOUR government works. As always I would be pleased if you would subscribe, rate, share, and review the show.Politico.com: White House regroups after McCarthy’s debt ceiling successUS Department of the Treasury: Debt LimitBrookings: How worried should we be if the debt ceiling isn’t lifted?Government Executive.com: House GOP Passes Debt Ceiling Bill That Puts Tens of Thousands of Federal Jobs At RiskPolitico.com: House GOP passes its debt bill, upping pressure on Biden PBS.org: Here’s what’s in the GOP bill to lift the U.S. debt limitThe Hill.com: These four House Republicans voted against the GOP debt limit billBrookings: What’s the difference between a government shutdown and a failure to raise the debt ceiling? .

As always I would be pleased if you would subscribe, rate, share, and review the show.This past week, President Biden quietly announced he is running for reelection.  NPR.com: Biden warns of rights under threat from Trump and 'MAGA extremists' in reelect launch.Politico.com: Biden dives back in, announces reelection bidPolitico.com: Chicago will host 2024 Democratic conventionWelcome back to Topless Government. This show is a cross between Schoolhouse Rock and civics for the masses.  I want to make this show relatable and fun for everyone who would like to know how YOUR government works.  Remember knowledge is power!  So let’s get started.I am the host, Crystal Ellerbe.  I live, breathe, eat, and sleep politics.  I’ve done two tours of duty in the US Senate and one tour of duty in the US House.  I had the privilege of working in state and local governments, corporate America and several lobbying firms in Washington, DC.This is the SECOND SEASON OF TOPLESS GOVERNMENT and I’ll be discussing topics that have been top of mind to everyone, providing an insight on how YOUR government works.  As always I would be pleased if you would subscribe, rate, share, and review the show.

It's March Madness my Citizen Legislators and I’m not talking about the NCAA Men’s and Women’s basketball tournament. March Madness for those who work in politics are filling out and submitting FY 2024 appropriations requests, community project funding requests and congressionally directed spending requests.Let me break this all down for you, my Citizen Legislators. House Republicans made several changes to the Fiscal Year 2024 appropriations process.According to the House Appropriations Committee Fiscal Year 2024 Guidance, Members can submit programmatic, language, and project requests as follows:Programmatic requests: Members may request specific funding levels for agencies and programs funded in the twelve appropriations bills.Language requests: Members may request bill language or report language directing or encouraging specific actions by federal agencies.Community Project Funding requests: Members may request funding for specific projects in their communities, so long as the projects have a federal nexus and meet other requirements established by federal law, House Rules, and the Committee to ensure only high quality projects are requested and funded.Guidance for Community Project Funding is available here.The Community Project Funding accounts list is available here.A template for the Member Financial Disclosure Certification and Federal Nexus Statement is available here.Cap on Overall Funding: The total amount for Community Project Funding in House appropriations bills will not exceed one half of one percent of discretionary spending. Cap on Member Requests: Members may submit a maximum of 15 requests across bills. Federal Nexus Requirement: In order to ensure a federal nexus exists for each funded project, the Committee will only fund projects that are tied to a federal authorization law. Members must include a written statement describing the federal nexus for each Community Project Funding request. Subcommittee guidance will include example language Members can use to make the required statement. Ban on For-Profit Recipients: Project funding may not be directed to for-profit recipients. Members may request funding for State, local, or tribal governmental grantees and certain eligible non-profits, as allowed under federal law and subcommittee guidance.House Appropriations Subcommittees not accepting community project funding requests: Defense; Financial Services and General Government: Labor, Health and Human Services, Education; Legislative Branch; and State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs.Letters of Support: Provide letters of support from third-party(s) expressing support for the community project funding requests.Fiscal Year 2024 House Appropriations Community Project Funding Eligible AccountsAgriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related AgenciesDepartment of Agriculture–Farm Production and Conservation ProgramsNatural Resources Conservation Service (Conservation Operations)Department of Agriculture–Research, Education, and EconomicsAgricultural Research Service (Buildings and Facilities)Department of Agriculture–Rural DevelopmentRural Housing Service (Community Facilities)Rural Utilities Service (ReConnect Program)Rural Utilities Service (Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grants)Rural Utilities Service (Rural Water and Waste Disposal Grants)Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related AgenciesDepartment of CommerceNIST—Scientific and Technical ResearchNOAA—Coastal Zone ManagementDepartment of JusticeCOPS Technology and EquipmentByrne JusticeNational Aeronautics and Space AdministrationSafety, Security, and Mission ServicesEnergy and Water DevelopmentArmy Corps of Engineers...

My Citizen Legislators today I am going to what I recently experienced for the very first time in my adult life.  I received a letter from the US District Court and inside was a summons for petit jury service.  My date of service was from Friday, February 24, 2023 -  Friday, March 10, 2023.  I’m not going to lie to you my Citizen Legislators, I wasn’t happy about receiving this jury summons.  Now mind you, I’ve received jury summons before but not for federal jury service.  I was required to complete a juror qualification  questionnaire and return it within 5 days of receipt.  Luckily I was to complete the questionnaire online.What is Federal Jury Service?U.S. citizens, 18-years-old and older, may qualify to serve in the federal courts on a jury. The Jury Selection and Service Act  establishes the process for selecting jurors and outlines qualifications a person must meet to serve on a federal jury. National eJuror ProgramThe national eJuror Program gives potential jurors the option of responding to their jury qualification questionnaire or summons online through the website of the local court that summoned citizens to jury duty. Juror SelectionEach district court randomly selects citizens’ names from lists of registered voters and people with drivers licenses who live in that district. The people randomly selected complete a questionnaire to help determine if they are qualified to serve on a jury. Those qualified are randomly chosen to be summoned to appear for jury duty. This selection process helps to make sure that jurors represent a cross section of the community, without regard to race, gender, national origin, age, or political affiliation.Jury Pool to Jury BoxBeing summoned for jury service does not guarantee that a person will actually serve on a jury. When a jury is needed for a trial, the group of qualified jurors is taken to the courtroom where the trial will take place. The judge and the attorneys then ask the potential jurors questions to determine their suitability to serve on the jury, a process called voir dire. The purpose of voir dire is to exclude from the jury people who may not be able to decide the case fairly. Members of the panel who know any person involved in the case, who have information about the case, or who may have strong prejudices about the people or issues involved in the case, typically will be excused by the judge. The attorneys also may exclude a certain number of jurors without giving a reason.Types of Cases Heard by JuriesThere are two types of judicial proceedings in the federal courts that use juries.Criminal trial: An individual is accused of committing a crime that is considered against society as a whole. Twelve people, and alternates, make up a criminal jury. A unanimous decision must be reached before a defendant is found “guilty.” The government must prove the crime was committed “beyond a reasonable doubt.”Guilty pleas and plea negotiations reduce the need for juries in criminal cases.Civil trial: Litigants seek remedies for private wrongs that don’t necessarily have a broader social impact. At least six people make up a civil jury. The jury must come to a unanimous decision unless specified otherwise. The standard of proof is a “preponderance of the evidence,” or “more true than not.”Settlement negotiations reduce the need for juries in civil cases.Working Together: Judge and JuryThe judge determines the appropriate law that

Season 2 Episode 9: Presidential Funerals and BurialsMy Citizen Legislators, several days ago the world learned that former US President James “Jimmy” Carter announced he is entering hospice care at home with his family.  I was eleven years old when Jimmy Carter was elected president of the United States.  During his presidency America was going through an energy crisis, inflation as well as Americans being held hostage in Iran.  A dear friend and former colleague reached out to me after the announcement and asked if she could stay with me so she could attend his state funeral.  This got me thinking about what starts the process of a state funeral for a former president.  I want to discuss Presidential funerals and burials.  Let’s get into it!I don’t want to make this episode morbid, however, throughout my life I’ve watched and paid tribute to former presidents that have died. Living in the DMV, Thank you for the opportunity to share my knowledge and love of politics.  I look forward to geeking out with you again.Presidential Funerals and Burials: Selected Resources (congress.gov)Jimmy Carter, 39th US president, enters hospice care at home | AP NewsJimmy Carter to begin receiving home hospice care | CNN PoliticsJimmy Carter enters hospice care at home (nbcnews.com)Biography of Jimmy Carter - About Us - The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum (jimmycarterlibrary.gov)James Carter - The White HouseJimmy Carter - Presidency | BritannicaJimmy Carter - White House Historical Association (whitehousehistory.org)A Presidental Funeral - White House Historical Association (whitehousehistory.org)Modern Mourning Observations at the White House - White House Historical Association (whitehousehistory.org)Official Homepage for U.S. State Funerals (army.mil)Welcome back to Topless Government. This show is a cross between Schoolhouse Rock and civics for the masses.  I want to make this show relatable and fun for everyone who would like to know how YOUR government works.  Remember knowledge is power!  So let’s get started.I am the host, Crystal Ellerbe.  I live, breathe, eat, and sleep politics.  I’ve done two tours of duty in the US Senate and one tour of duty in the US House.  I had the privilege of working in state and local governments, corporate America and several lobbying firms in Washington, DC.This is the SECOND SEASON OF TOPLESS...

My Citizen Legislators, President Joe Biden gave his in person State of the Union address before a Joint Session of Congress on February 7th at 9pm ET.  I want to discuss the origins and authorization of the State of the Union Address.According US House of Representatives Office of the Historian:The formal basis for the State of the Union Address is from the U.S. Constitution:The President “shall from time to time give to the Congress Information of the State of the Union, and recommend to their Consideration such measures as he shall judge necessary and expedient.” Article II, Section 3, Clause 1.The constitutionally mandated presidential message has gone through a few name changes:It was formerly known as the Annual Message from 1790 to 1946.It began to be informally called the "state of the Union" message/address from 1942 to 1946.Since 1947 it has officially been known as the State of the Union Address.Earlier Annual Messages of the President included agency budget requests and general reports on the health of the economy. During the 20th century, Congress required more-specialized reports on these two aspects, separate from the Annual Message.Budget Message, required by the National Budget and Accounting Act of 1921 (42 Stat. 20) to be delivered to Congress no more than two weeks after Congress convenes in January.Economic Report, required by the Employment Act of 1946 (60 Stat. 23), with a flexible delivery date.Over time, as the message content changed, the focus of the State of the Union also changed:In the 19th century, the annual message was both a lengthy administrative report on the various departments of the executive branch and a budget and economic message.After 1913, when Woodrow Wilson revived the practice of presenting the message to Congress in person, it became a platform for the President to rally support for his agenda.Technological changes—radio, television, and the Internet—further developed the State of the Union into a forum for the President to speak directly to the American people.Technological ChangeFirst radio broadcast of Message: President Calvin Coolidge, 1923.First television broadcast of Message: President Harry Truman, 1947.First televised evening delivery of Message: President Lyndon Johnson, 1965.First live webcast on Internet: President George W. Bush, 2002.First high definition television broadcast of Message, President George W. Bush, 2004.Record HoldersThe longest: President James Earl (Jimmy) Carter 33,667 words in 1981 (written). President William J. (Bill) Clinton 9,190 words in 1995 (spoken).1The shortest: President George Washington, 1790, 1,089 words.2Average length: 19th century was about 10,000 words; late 20th century, about 5,000 words.Most Messages/Addresses given: President Franklin Roosevelt, 12 (10 were personal appearances before Congress).Fewest Messages/Addresses given: President Zachary Taylor, 1; President

On Wednesday, February 3, 2023, we celebrated a Saturday morning television show, Schoolhouse Rock on ABC!  I’m a Generation Xer and I grew up on Schoolhouse Rock!  Generation X owes a great deal to SchoolHouse Rock and I want to celebrate the half-century mark of this phenomenal animated television show.My Citizen Legislators as y’all know, the Topless Government podcast is a cross between School House Rock and civics for the masses.According to IMDb:A generation of American kids grew up singing the catchy tunes that were an integral part of "Schoolhouse Rock." These animated shorts incorporate songs that illustrate educational subjects such as history, science, multiplication tables, and basic grammar.First episode date: January 6, 1973 (USA)Executive producers: Tom Yohe, George Newall, Radford StoneYear: 1973Created by: David McCallOriginal network: ABC (1973-1985, 1992–2000); Direct-to-video (2009)Production companies: Scholastic Rock, Inc. ABCIn the first season, there were 11 episodes.  Season 1 episodesS1 E1 · My Hero, Zero

Well, well, well.  Speaker Kevin McCarthy is a man of his word; he announced on January 24th the removal of Representatives Adam Schiff (D-CA) and Eric Swalwell (D-CA.) from the House Intelligence Committee. According to the National Review.com January 28th article by Britanny Bernstein, Speaker McCarthy cited Swalwell’s association with a Chinese spy and Schiff’s boosting of the now-debunked Steele dossier as reasons each lawmaker is unfit to serve on their assigned committee.The National Review.com article continues by stating, Speaker McCarthy has vowed to remove Representative Ilhan Omar (D-MN) from the House Foreign Affairs Committee over past anti-Semitic remarks and other controversial comments about Israel. However, Omar’s ouster would require a vote of the full House.A few House GOP members have publicly stated their opposition to the removal of Rep. Omar from the House Foreign Affairs Committee.  It is unclear as to when an actual House floor vote will occur.  Stay tuned.Speaker’s committee removal powers are limited | The HillMcCarthy vows to remove three Dems from committee posts | The HillDivided U.S. House members spar over national security committee seats | ReutersDemocrats tee up showdown with McCarthy on committee seats (axios.com) House vote on Ilhan Omar’s Foreign Affairs seat appears increasingly uncertain (jewishinsider.com)Ilhan Omar: Foreign Affairs Committee Expulsion Opposed by Ken Buck | National ReviewWelcome back to Topless Government. This show is a cross between Schoolhouse Rock and civics for the masses.  I want to make this show relatable and fun for everyone who would like to know how YOUR government works.  Remember knowledge is power!  So let’s get started.I am the host, Crystal Ellerbe.  I live, breathe, eat, and sleep politics.  I’ve done two tours of duty in the US Senate and one tour of duty in the US House.  I had the privilege of working in state and local governments, corporate America and several lobbying firms in Washington, DC.This is the SECOND SEASON OF TOPLESS GOVERNMENT and I’ll be discussing topics that have been top of mind to everyone, providing an insight on how YOUR government works.  As always I would be pleased if you would subscribe, rate, share, and review the show.

The annual three-day event included Louisiana Alive! on Thursday night, which is a mixer event showcasing Louisiana foods from all over the state and live music from various bands in Louisiana. Friday night is a seated dinner where the Mardi Gras princesses and festival queens are presented. Saturday night is the grand Mardi Gras Ball Gala, where the king is presented to the crowd of more than 3,000 after the royalty presentation with floats and marching bands that parade through the ballroom.If you want to run for office in Louisiana, Washington Mardi Gras is the perfect opportunity to be seen and heard – shaking that money tree to hosting fundraising events. Many deals are discussed and signed on the dotted line so to speak.  Mixing business and pleasure is a way of life for Louisianians – socializing across party lines can lead to getting things done, policy wise.History | mkoflAt Washington Mardi Gras, Louisiana gov. hopefuls seek cash | Local Politics | nola.comWashington Mardi Gras: The swamp becomes crowded - Louisiana Illuminator (lailluminator.com)Washington Mardi Gras has Louisiana politicos partying in DC (businessreport.com)Some start Washington Mardi Gras at the White House | Local Politics | nola.comWashington D.C. Mardi Gras underway today through Saturday. Movers & shakers gather to wheel & deal and catch some beads | louisianaradionetwork.comAs always I would be pleased if you would subscribe, rate, share, and review the show.My Citizen Legislators I am so excited because this past weekend in DC Washington Mardi Gras took place at the Washington Hilton.  For over 70 years the Mystick Krewe of Louisianians this great organization has brought the pageantry, revelry, and mystery of Mardi Gras to our nation's capital.  This was Topless Government, the government and politics show.  If you enjoyed it, I would be pleased if you would subscribe, rate and review the show.  We’re on YouTube and Facebook right now.  Production is courtesy of Marcus Donovan, the Pasteurized Chef.  You can check out his show – the District of Misfits Show – every Sunday evening.  They go live at 10pm.  This show is a District Dogface Studios Production.  Thank you for the opportunity to share my knowledge and love of politics.  I look forward to geeking out with you again.

My Citizen legislators, one of my followers on TikTok AionTeleos, would love to hear an episode on congressional committees, and what benefit Members of Congress get from those assignments.  I agree!  This is a great idea and timely!We are now two weeks into the 118th Congress.  The House and Senate were in recess this week.  Well as I can tell you from my time on Capitol Hill as a staffer, committee assignments are extremely important to Members of Congress.  When my former boss, Congressman David Vitter (R-LA-1) ran for the open US Senate seat in Louisiana back in 2004 and won, we had to begin thinking about what committees he was to join in the Senate.  Now a great deal of thought goes into securing plum committee assignments.  Committee assignments can shape a Member’s tenure in Congress, and it can take some effort to secure a spot on a committee that deals with issues relevant to a Member of Congress District or State.  Representatives seek posts on committees with jurisdiction in areas in which they have expertise or that support the interests of their districts and for Senators their states.There are three types of committees in each chamber. Standing committees in the Senate and House are permanent and have a defined legislative jurisdiction under Senate Rule XXV or House Rule X, respectively.Types of Committees in the HouseThere are three types of committees: standing, select, and joint.Standing committees are permanent committees whose jurisdiction is identified in the House Rules. Currently there are 20 standing committees Select committees are created by a resolution to conduct investigations or consider measures, usually on a specific topic, and are not renewed on a permanent basis with the notable exception of the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence.Joint committees, such as the Joint Committee on Taxation, have both House and Senate members and typically conduct studies rather than consider measures.Standing Committees are permanent committees established under the standing rules of the Senate and specialize in the consideration of particular subject areas. The Senate currently has 16 standing committees.Joint Committees include membership from both houses of Congress. Joint committees are usually established with narrow jurisdictions and normally lack authority to report legislation. The position of chair usually alternates each Congress between members from the House and Senate.Special or Select Committees were originally established by the Senate for a limited time period to perform a particular study or investigation. These committees might be given or denied authority to report legislation to the Senate.Select and joint committees generally handle oversight or housekeeping responsibilities.In both the House and Senate, no member may chair more than one standing committee. Republicans members in both chambers have imposed term limits on their committee and subcommittee leaders.  Under the restrictions, committee or subcommittee leaders may not serve more than six years as leader.  Committee assignments were delayed due to the five days and 15 manual roll call votes on the election of a speaker.  Committee assignments have been slowly trickling out to the public.  The steering committee for each party makes assignments which in turn must be voted on by the Democratic Caucus or Republican Conference. Members are typically limited to service on two committees and four subcommittees, with...

My Citizen Legislators. The Speaker’s race is over after a ballbusting and brawling on the House floor in the early hours of Saturday, January 7th.  On January 9th,  the House voted on H.Res. 5 - Adopting the Rules of the House of Representatives for the One Hundred Eighteenth Congress and for other purposes AKA - House Rules Package for the 118th Congress.  The final vote count was 220 to 213, Representative Tony Gonzales (R-TX-23) voted with the Democrats.  Rep. Gonzales, a member of the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus, denounced that some of McCarthy’s concessions to 21 conservative agitators went too far – specifically one making it easier to oust McCarthy as speaker.  In the package of rules changes McCarthy and the Freedom Caucus negotiated for the 118th Congress was a provision allowing a single lawmaker to force a floor vote to oust McCarthy as speaker.Another rule change, secured by conservatives, would ban the practice of automatically raising the federal debt ceiling when Congress passes a budget resolution. It means that the House and Senate will need to take a separate vote to hike the nation’s borrowing limit in addition, Republicans are demanding massive spending cuts in exchange – cutting mandatory programs, i.e. Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid.Other rules changes in the package included:Requiring that new spending has to be offset with cuts elsewhere in the budget.Requiring that lawmakers get 72 hours to read a bill before it's brought to the floor.Eliminating proxy or remote voting.Allowing the House to vote to create a select subcommittee focused on investigating the origins of the pandemic and the “weaponization of the federal government.”Gutting the Office of Congressional Ethics, the nonpartisan, independent office that investigates lawmakers.My Citizen Legislators there you have it!  This is what Speaker McCarthy conceded so he could have the job he has pined away for since being elected to Congress in 2006.There is so much to unpack here.  Gutting Office of Congressional Ethics essentially is an attempt to keep the razor thin 9-seat GOP majority in tack.  So, no investigations against Rep. George Santos (R-NY-3) or whatever his real name is?  Politico.com: Unpacking the House GOP's new rules: A handy guide to the changes Changes to House Rules Affecting the Congressional Budget Process Included in H.Res. 5 (118 th Congress)The Holman Rule (House Rule XXI, Clause 2(b))H. Res. 5 - Adopting the Rules of the House of Representatives for the One Hundred Eighteenth Congress, and for other purposes.BGOV Bill Summary: H. Res. 5, House Rules for the 118th Congress (2)    RollCall.com: House adopts rules package for the 118th Congress Welcome back to Topless Government. This show is a cross between Schoolhouse Rock and civics for the masses.  I want to make this show relatable and fun for everyone who would like...

GOVT 101 – Federal Government Bouncing a HUGE Check (Defaulting on our Debt & Raising the Debt Limit)The US hit the debt ceiling set by Congress on Thursday, January 19th, forcing the Treasury Department to start taking extraordinary measures to keep the government paying its bills and escalating pressure on Capitol Hill to avoid a catastrophic default. According to Politico, Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen suggested such measures may last until early June. Other forecasters say it could be as late as September.Ben White, with Politico January 19, 2023 article entitled, “Don’t freak out over the debt limit … yet laid out the politics surrounding the debt ceiling debate.In the White House’s view, Republicans are on very poor political ground. Unlike 2010, they scored no big mandate for spending cuts in the 2022 midterms. Republicans raised the debt limit repeatedly under President Donald Trump without any spending cuts. And they were expected to romp in 2022 and only barely snared the House.Democrats, meanwhile, will hammer them for the next several months about holding the economy hostage over giving the Treasury the ability to pay for spending commitments Congress has already made.The White House team figures there will be a path to a relatively clean hike featuring Democrats and moderate Republicans from districts President Joe Biden carried. Which gets us to …Why you should worry a bit. The main reason is that, in order to get the gavel, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) agreed that he would not push through any debt limit hike without significant spending cuts. And his speakership hangs on just one Republican deciding to force a vote to push him out. So hardline fiscal conservatives in the House Freedom Caucus will have outsized power. And making a deal that features mostly Democratic votes seems like it will be quite difficult.This drama will run for the next five months and possibly more. It may look very grim and hopeless at times. It has before. But the U.S. has never defaulted. Anyone with a rudimentary understanding of economics knows it simply can’t be allowed to happen. So it’s reasonable — for now at least — to believe 2023 won’t be the year that Congress decides to vaporize the economy for absolutely no good reason.This was Topless Government, the government and politics show.  If you enjoyed it, I would be pleased if you would subscribe, rate, and review the show.  We’re on YouTube and Facebook right now.  Production is courtesy of Marcus Donovan, the Pasteurized Chief.  You can check out his show – the District of Misfits Show – every Sunday evening.  They go live at 10 pm.  This show is a District Dogface Studios Production.  Thank you for the opportunity to share my knowledge and love of politics.  I look forward to geeking out with you again.CRS INSIGHT: “Extraordinary Measures” and the Debt Limit CRS IN FOCUS Report: The Debt LimitUS Treasury News Release: Secretary of the Treasury Janet L. Yellen Sends Letter to Congressional Leadership on the Debt LimitDebt-Limit-Letter-to-Congress-McCarthy-20230113

This is the SECOND SEASON OF TOPLESS GOVERNMENT and I’ll be discussing topics that have been top of mind to everyone, providing an insight on how YOUR government works.  As always I would be pleased if you would subscribe, rate, share, and review the show.My Citizen Legislators this week Congress convened the first session of the 118th Congress.  There have been 11 rounds of votes for the Speaker of the House as of Thursday evening.  House Republicans asked for a Motion to Adjourn and it was agreed to by a vote of 219 to 213 and 2 not voting.Rep.-Elect Kevin McCarthy (R-CA-20) does not have the votes.  Twenty republicans have consistently voted against him.  Republicans have a 9 seat majority at 222 members to 213 Democratic members.  McCarthy can only afford to lose 4 votes.  He has conceded to the demands of the two Republicans – Motion to Vacate the Chair, a mechanism to oust the Speaker of the House of Representatives.  Placing members of the House Freedom Caucus on the House Rules Committee.  The Committee on Rules is amongst the oldest standing committees in the House, having been first formally constituted on April 2, 1789. The Committee is commonly known as “The Speaker’s Committee” because it is the mechanism that the Speaker uses to maintain control of the House Floor, and was chaired by the Speaker until 1910. Because of the vast power wielded by the Rules Committee, its ratio has traditionally been weighted in favor of the majority party and has been in its “2 to 1” (9 majority and 4 minority members) configuration since the late 1970s.I am the host, Crystal Ellerbe.  I live, breathe, eat, and sleep politics.  I’ve done two tours of duty in the US Senate and one tour of duty in the US House.  I had the privilege of working in state and local governments, corporate America, and several lobbying firms in Washington, DC.CRS Report R44243 Electing the Speaker of the House of Representatives: Frequently Asked Questions CRS Report: The First Day of a New Congress: A Guide to Proceedings on the Senate FloorCRS Report: Party Leaders in the House: Election, Duties, and Responsibilities  Bloomberg: McCarthy Blocked for 11th Time in Longest Fight Since 1859Bloomberg: Conservative Revolt Against McCarthy Erupts After Years of AngerPolitico.com: McCarthy fails on 11th ballot amid hopes for tentative deal with conservativesThe Hill: GOP discusses new concessions in behind-the-scenes talks on making McCarthy Speaker

We are winding down the second session of the 117th Congress.  There are no uncontested midterm election races and on December 6th, Senator Raphael Warnock (D-GA) defeated Herschel Walker for a full 6-year term in the Senate.Both Democratic and Republican parties have begun the ritual of organizing for the 118th Congress that will convene on January 3, 2023.Democrats traditionally use the seniority system to select chairs and ranking members on committees, and they do not enforce term limits. House Republicans adhere to a six -year term limit for chairs and often see competitive races for top committee gavels, like Appropriations and Ways and Means.GETTING ORGANIZED— House Democrats are moving full speed ahead to lock-in lower ranking leadership roles and key committee leaders by the middle of next week. Ranking members of House committees could be set by then, after the Steering Committee makes its recommendations. Tomorrow the caucus will look at Budget Committee leadership and the new position of Battleground Leadership Representative, giving frontliners a seat at the leadership table.Welcome back to Topless Government. This show is a cross between Schoolhouse Rock and civics for the masses.  I want to make this show relatable and fun for everyone who would like to know how YOUR government works.  Remember knowledge is power!  So let’s get started.I am the host, Crystal Ellerbe.  I live, breathe, eat, and sleep politics.  I’ve done two tours of duty in the US Senate and one tour of duty in the US House.  I had the privilege of working in state and local governments, corporate America and several lobbying firms in Washington, DC.As always I would be pleased if you would subscribe, rate, share, and review the show.Party Leaders in the United States Congress, 1789-2019 Dems ready for covid compromise on NDAA - POLITICO Congressional Deskbook The Practical and Comprehensive Guide to Congress Sixth Edition Judy Schneider and Michael L. KoempelThe Hill.com: When are House and Senate leadership elections? RollCall: Democrats compete to do ‘unglamorous’ work in House leadership posts  Hoyer Statement on Democratic Leader Hakeem JeffriesHoyer Statement on Democratic Whip Katherine Clark  Hoyer Statement on House Democratic Caucus Chairman Pete AguilarMajority Leader Schumer Announces Senate Democratic Leadership Team For The 118th Congress

In this episode, Crystal is shooting off the cuff with Marcus and discussing what's going on in the world of politics. Sometimes we just need to vent.Welcome back to Topless Government. This show is a cross between Schoolhouse Rock and civics for the masses.  I want to make this show relatable and fun for everyone who would like to know how YOUR government works.  Remember knowledge is power!  So let’s get started.I am the host, Crystal Ellerbe.  I live, breathe, eat, and sleep politics.  I’ve done two tours of duty in the US Senate and one tour of duty in the US House.  I had the privilege of working in state and local governments, corporate America, and several lobbying firms in Washington, DC.