The 118th Congress, which was elected in 2022, spanned from January 2023 to January 2025. Journalist Annie Karni and Luke Broadwater of The New York Times explore this period in their book, “Mad House,” where they depict it as the first Congress under MAGA control. During this session, only 27 bills passed into law, marking a record low since the Great Depression.
“Mad House” outlines the dramatic proceedings of the 118th Congress, including Rep. Kevin McCarthy’s (R-Calif.) election as Speaker of the House, which required 15 voting rounds, followed by his removal 10 months later. Notably, the publication recalls a contentious confrontation between Reps. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) and Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) during a nighttime committee meeting, which was highlighted as a typically volatile time for legislative gatherings.
Karni and Broadwater reveal that the Republicans held a slim majority in this Congress, allowing a small group of far-right members to wield significant influence over proceedings. Broadwater notes that current House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) owes his role to former President Trump’s support, which shapes how the House currently functions in relation to the administration.
Looking forward, Broadwater predicts continued dysfunction in Congress, observing that voters may appreciate such confrontations. He suggests that a strong position in primaries involves being the most vocal and extreme candidate, indicating a shift towards more dynamic and assertive political tactics in the Democratic Party.
On another note, discussions about members of Congress, including some like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), housings arrangements show the financial strain faced by those without wealthy backgrounds, resulting in some living in their offices. Furthermore, the physical threats and demanding travel schedules contribute significantly to burnout among legislators, highlighting the rigorous demands on those serving.
Karni discusses criticism faced by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) from House Democrats and voters after he chose to collaborate with Republicans to prevent a government shutdown. This decision, Schumer argues, was to avoid allowing officials like Elon Musk and Donald Trump influence over government operations during a shutdown.
Lastly, Broadwater mentions that Republicans in Congress appear to be aligning with Elon Musk’s DOGE task force and his aggressive budget cuts. However, Musk, unlike Trump, lacks the broader public appeal and presents a potential political target for Democrats, particularly due to populist resentment over economic disparity.
