Extreme Mortman

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been invited to address a Joint Meeting of Congress. It would be his fourth time. And that sets a few Congress records: The greatest number of official speeches in Congress by one foreign leader. His introduction by Speaker Mike Johnson marks the fourth time Benjamin Netanyahu has been by introduced by a Republican speaker. And Israel takes over first place for the greatest number of total speeches by leaders of a foreign country to a Joint Meeting of Congress. Ten times by an Israeli Prime Minister or President. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

President George H.W. Bush would have been 100 years old. He was born June 12, 1924. And to mark that milestone birthday, he might have jumped out of an airplane. Like he did when he turned 75 … and 80 … and 85 … and 90. Why jump out of airplanes as he got older? Here’s what President Bush said in 1998: It was about closure because on September 2nd, 1944, I made a parachute jump and I did it badly. My life was spared. Off the island of Chichijima. During Word War II. But I made a mistake again went out too early and bad things happened. So for years I wanted to do it right. But what I thought the press would ridicule me. But what happened was. And maybe there's a lesson here for other old guys if there are others in this room. And somehow that silly parachute jump awaked in a lot of people that very thought. We can. We can do something even at our age. President George Bush was serious about the jumps. But he often joked about them. And he used First Lady Barbara Bush as his comedy foil. What were his best birthday parachute jokes? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Through the words of American presidents who have spoken over the years at Normandy, this week's episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly" marks the 80th anniversary of D-Day. We hear presidents talk about American soldiers who fought there and died there. Some of the greatest and most legendary speeches of the modern American presidency have been delivered at Normandy for D-Day anniversaries … In all, American presidents have spoken at Normandy eight times since D-Day … Hear the stories and the speeches – in “The Weekly." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“This debate tonight has made crystal clear a challenge that is as old as America — the choice between hope and fear, change or more of the same.” That was Arkansas Governor Bill Clinton – his closing statement in the October 11, 1992, presidential debate… “More of the same” – It’s a phrase Bill Clinton famously – and quite effectively – used during the 1992 campaign… And you don’t just hear it from Bill Clinton …”More of the same” is a warning you typically hear from other presidential candidates in other presidential campaigns. But probably not this year…. In 2024 – with a repeat of the same two candidates from the last presidential election – we likely won’t hear either side talk much – if at all – about “more of the same.” So let’s do it ourselves – Let’s use this week’s episode of C-SPAN’s “The Weekly” to remember when “more of the same” was common campaign rhetoric… Yes, in this podcast we hear more of the same – about more of the same. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Trump hush money trial has us talking about the National Enquirer. But it seems like the tabloid never left the political conversation. The National Enquirer’s pictures, scoops, and reporting have influenced the establishment political media for years. In this week’s episode’s of C-SPAN’s podcast “The Weekly,” we revisit what we might be the most famous example of how National Enquirer reporting shapes broader political reporting – and even the presidential race. Our focus: Gary Hart. How did conventional media react to the National Enquirer’s reporting of the Democratic presidential candidate having an alleged affair in 1987? Hear all the self-reflection and hand-wringing in “The Weekly.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

During the recent White House Correspondents' Association Dinner, New York Times photographer Doug Mills got an award. He got an award for his photography at last year's dinner, too. And the Association awarded him in 2020 as well. The Association gives out only five awards every year — and until just a few years ago, those awards did not acknowledge visual journalism. So let’s make up for lost time. Let’s recognize Doug Mills work before the Correspondents Association started giving him awards. In this episode of C-SPAN’s podcast “The Weekly,” we’ll revisit a specific moment in presidential history that changed America – and made many Americans aware of Doug Mills legendary work. We'll remember – in Doug Mills' own words from his appearances on C-SPAN – what he saw and experienced covering President Bush during the terror attacks of 9/11. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The recent death of O.J. Simpson reminds us of one of the most controversial episodes involving a prayer opening a session of Congress…And its aftermath. In this week's episode of C-SPAN’s “The Weekly, you’ll hear the full Senate prayer for O.J. Simpson following his arrest … plus, the rare rebuke by a U.S. Senator. And then, you’ll hear the surprise twist that happened next. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Elected in November 1984, Mitch McConnell now has over 4,300 speaking appearances on C-SPAN. And he’s been telling jokes from the beginning. And - in this week’s episode of C-SPAN's “The Weekly” – we hear them! We recently remembered Democratic Senator Joe Lieberman by hearing his jokes, quips, and humorous one-liners. Now, it’s part II – BALANCE! -- we hear a Republican Senator telling jokes … So, once again, get ready to have a good time … and listen to the first ever Mitch McConnell Comedy Festival….. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It is my sad duty to inform you officially of the death of Richard Milhous Nixon, the thirty-seventh President of the United States Born in 1913, he was first elected to the Congress in 1946, a member of that historic freshman class of World War II veterans that also included John F. Kennedy. He was elected to the Senate in 1950, and served two terms as Vice President of the United States between 1953 and 1961. His career in the Congress coincided with the great expansion of the American middle class, when men and women from backgrounds as humble as his own secured the triumph of freedom abroad and the promise of economic growth at home That was a message from President Clinton … read at the beginning of the House session on April 25, 1994. It was the first day Congress met after Richard Nixon’s, death three days earlier. In 1968, Richard Nixon was elected the 37th President after previously serving as a U.S. Representative and a U.S. Senator. Richard Nixon is the most recent president who served in both the House and the Senate. In fact, he was the last of three straight presidents who served in both chambers, following Lyndon Johnson and John F. Kennedy. In all, ten presidents have served in both the House and Senate. Many of the speakers in Congress that April day remembered Nixon in personal terms and with personal stories … As we approach the 30th anniversary of Richard Nixon’s death … April 22nd … this week's episode of C-SPAN’s “The Weekly” remembers what was said about him -- in both chambers–-- as Congress mourned one of its own. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s the war between the States – of the States addresses! Folks are moving here in record numbers to become a part of our winning way of life. Californians and New Yorkers have never seen a state like ours – one that trusts our people, and one that embraces and promotes liberty and Freedom. That was Republican South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem … her State of the State address …Now here’s Democratic Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer – her State of the State address: In some states, educators are being undermined, micromanaged, and even criminalized just for doing their jobs. In Florida, teachers are disrespected and book bans are rampant—heck, just two weeks ago, a district banned the dictionary! The dictionary! In Texas, nearly 1 in 3 teachers aren’t even certified. Governors who knocked other states – states whose governors happen to be from opposite parties. It happened a lot this year in State of the State addresses. Instead of the Blue versus the Gray, this civil war – the rhetorical civil war -- is the Blue versus the Red. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe Lieberman is being remembered as a Senator, a Presidential candidate, and a Vice Presidential candidate… But also part of Joe Lieberman’s legacy: comedy. What were some of his funniest quips, jokes, and real-time reactions? Find out in this week’s episode of C-SPAN’s “The Weekly” – as we remember Joe Lieberman’s journey through politics -- with the jokes he told and the funny things he said. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You know that in 2012 America had a presidential election– Mitt Romney versus Barack Obama. But did you know Russia had one, too? And it happens again in 2024 -- both America and Russia have presidential elections. Russia’s presidents serve six-year terms … So the last time the U.S and Russia both held presidential elections in the same year was 2012 .. and Putin was a candidate both times. In the 2024 U.S. presidential election, Russia and Putin are a hot topic. But what about 2012? As you’ll hear in this week’s episode of C-SPAN’s “The Weekly” … in 2012 presidential candidates also had lots to say about a country and a president it seems we’re always talking about -- Russia and Putin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s C-SPAN’s 45th anniversary … and C-SPAN’s “The Weekly” is marking it the best way we know how … With big, famous, legendary, significant, tragic, angry, hilarious, and otherwise notable moments from those 45 years … Some you’ve heard before, some perhaps you’re hearing now for the first time … So put on your tuxedo, toss some confetti, and enjoy this anniversary show. … 45 clips for 45 years….... A C-SPAN Playlist! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You’re a political junkie… You know your Congress history … and you watch and listen to C-SPAN. So, you probably know when and where Congressman Al Gore said this. Mr. Speaker, on this historic day the House of Representatives opens its proceedings for the first time to televised coverage. …Television will change this institution, Mr. Speaker, just as it has changed the executive branch, but the good will far outweigh the bad. From this day forward every Member of this body must ask himself or herself how many Americans are listening to the debates which are made. That’s right – it was March 19, 1979 – the first day of live gavel to gavel coverage of the floor of the House … the first day of C-SPAN. But other than Congressman Gore talking about House TV – do you know what else other members of congress talked about that day in 1979? C-SPAN is marking its 45th anniversary... and in this week’s episode of C-SPAN’s podcast “The Weekly,” we return to Congress for that first day of TV ….not to hear more about Congress on TV – after all, you’ve probably have heard that Gore speech before – but to learn something new: What else did they talk about? So climb inside our podcast time machine … and transport back 45 years, to hear what else was on the minds of members of Congress that first day of live TV. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

About a month after the explosion, Oppenheimer comes to the White House and he sits down with Truman. And by this point he’s just wracked with second thoughts. And he says Mr. President I have these terrible regrets. I feel that I have blood on my hands. And Truman says: Don’t worry about it. I gave the order. I have blood on my hands. And they finish the conversation. Oppenheimer leaves. And Truman says to his staff I never want to see that son of a bitch in this office ever again. That was veteran television news journalist Chris Wallace… … discussing his book "Countdown 1945: The Extraordinary Story of the Atomic Bomb and the 116 Days That Changed the World." If you've seen the movie Oppenheimer, what Chris Wallace was talking about might sound familiar. It was October 25th, 1945 – when Dr. Robert Oppenheimer met President Truman in the Oval Office…. The scene was pivotal in the movie … and in real-life. Now, it's time for the Academy Awards – and Oppenheimer is up for an Oscar for Best Picture ….and in 12 other categories. In the latest episode of C-SPAN's “The Weekly,” we hear from experts and historians and biographers – talking about that time Oppenheimer met Truman…. The fact-check question for this week’s podcast: Did the movie get it right? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Governor Bush, Atlanta Braves pitcher John Rocker gave a venomous interview to Sports Illustrated recently spewing hatred towards gays, blacks, single mothers and foreigners.” That was Suzanne Geha of WOOD-TV in Grand Rapids Michigan teeing up a question for Republican presidential candidate George W. Bush – January 10, 2000 – a debate at Calvin College in Grand Rapids Michigan. What was that citation of Sports Illustrated in a presidential debate all about? Do we hear Sports Illustrated mentioned often in politics? Actually, Sports Illustrated has a lengthy history with politics and political rhetoric. But now, sadly, it looks like it’s ending - They recently fired their whole staff … So let’s give the magazine -- and its reporters -- a loving send-off – and devote a whole episode of C-SPAN’s “The Weekly” in tribute to Sports Illustrated. In this week’s podcast, we remember some of the most prominent – and colorful -- times this legendary, iconic magazine has been part of the political scene. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Will President Biden mention immigration in his 2024 State of the Union address? If history is any guide: Yes. Immigration has been a topic in every State of the Address for the last 20 years. What do Presidents say about immigration – and legal and illegal immigrants -- and our southern border – and fences and walls -- in their State of the Union addresses? Find out in this week’s episode of C-SPAN’s podcast “The Weekly.” Find C-SPAN’s “The Weekly” wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

25 years ago this month … the Senate impeachment trial of President Bill Clinton … and the star witness, Monica Lewinsky In this week’s episode of C-SPAN’s podcast “The Weekly” we remember that day … a quarter century ago this week … when Monica Lewinsky testified under oath … on video … to the entire U.S. Senate … about her relationship with Bill Clinton. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“I think it’s impossible to predict when we set up systems whether it won’t fail at some point. I don’t think that anything man creates is perfect. I’m not so sure that it needs fixing. I don’t want to be part of it again, I can tell you that much. I don’t want to be in the middle of that sort of thing.” But Clarence Thomas IS part of “it” again. When the Supreme Court Justice said he didn’t want to be “in the middle of that sort thing” – it was April 8, 2002, and he was talking about Bush v. Gore – the case that decided the 2000 presidential election. … Now Justice Thomas is hearing oral argument in Trump v. Anderson … and the Supreme Court will decide whether Donald Trump is eligible for Colorado’s Republican primary ballot. Like Bush v. Gore nearly a quarter century ago, Trump v. Anderson puts the Supreme Court squarely in a central role in a presidential election. Clarence Thomas is the only remaining member of the Supreme Court that, in December 2000, decided Bush v. Gore. In this week’s episode of C-SPAN’s podcast “The Weekly,” right as the Court decides a new case with immediate bearing on a presidential election, we hear what Justice Thomas has said about that landmark Supreme Court case, Bush v. Gore. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In last week’s episode of C-SPAN’s podcast “The Weekly,” we brought you 14 facts about Sandra Day O’Connor you might not have known. This week’s podcast is Sandra Day O’Connor, part 2: What other Justices said about her. -Who mentioned her when they were nominated? -Who mentioned her in their confirmation hearings? -And what are some stories about her you won’t want to miss? Find out in the latest episode of C-SPAN’s podcast “The Weekly.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You probably know Sandra Day O’Connor was the first female justice on the Supreme Court. But did you also know she was skilled at disco dancing? That’s one of 14 things you may not have known about Sandra Day O’Connor. Quick quiz: Can you name all 14 things you may not have known about Sandra Day O’Connor? If not, you’ll simply have to listen to this week’s episode of C-SPAN’s podcast “The Weekly” … Because you’ll hear all 14 Things You May Not Have Known about Sandra Day O’Connor. And you won’t want to miss next week’s podcast, Part 2: Hear What The Other Justices Said About Sandra Day O’Connor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The New Hampshire presidential primary is just days away … So, let’s check in with … Lesser-Known Candidates! “My fellow Americans and others. As your president, I have promised to engage in hostilities only with powers that I deem to be a real and immediate threat to our peace-loving nation. And that is why I have ordered the inter-dimensional strategic space horse command to commence bombing of Narnia in 5 minutes. If we do not fight them in their dimension there, we will have no choice but to fight them in our dimension here.” That was Vermin Supreme’s opening statement in the lesser-known candidates forum, just weeks ahead of the 2024 New Hampshire primary. Wait a second – who is Vermin Supreme? What’s his platform? And what about the serious, substantive, core of the lesser-known candidates forum? Find out by hearing more Vermin Supreme and more serious presidential aspirants who have participated in the lesser-known candidates forum - in the latest episode of C-SPAN’s podcast “The Weekly.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Iowa Republican presidential caucus is just days away … What happened the last time Republicans held a competitive contest in Iowa? Tonight is a victory for courageous conservatives across Iowa, and all across this great nation. Tonight, the state of Iowa has spoken. Iowa has sent notice that the Republican nominee for the next president of the United States will not be chosen by the media. That was Senator Ted Cruz, the night he won Iowa in 2016. But Ted Cruz did not become the Republican nominee for the next president of the United States. And for that, he has lots of historical company … The eventual Republican presidential nominee rarely wins Iowa. Do you remember who Ted Cruz beat in 2016 in Iowa? And do you know which other Republicans lost Iowa but ended up winning the party’s presidential nomination? And – for Republicans – does Iowa even matter? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we take a look behind the podcast with host Howard Mortman. He shares some of his favorite clips from C-SPAN's Video Library and shares how he finds those clips amongst all of the hours of programming. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s time for our annual year-end tradition! … C-SPAN’s “The Weekly” looks back at the year in Congress. … For 2023, it’s a special double-episode of the podcast … Back-to-back year-enders for Congress. The first one … for Christmas – It was the Year in Congress in Jesus – that is, mentions of Jesus. Now it’s time for Part II: The Year in Congress in George Orwell! – that is, mentions of George Orwell Who talked about George Orwell in Congress in 2023? And what did they say? Find out in the latest episode of C-SPAN’s podcast “The Weekly” – … It’s Part 2 of 2023 in Congress … It’s the Year of Mentions of George Orwell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s time for the annual year-end tradition! … C-SPAN’s “The Weekly” looks back at the year in Congress. … For 2023, it’s a special double-episode of the podcast … Back-to-back year-enders for Congress. The first one … just in time for Christmas – It’s the Year in Congress in Jesus – that is, mentions of Jesus. From both Republicans and Democrats. Who talked about Jesus in Congress in 2023? And what did they say? Find out in the latest episode of C-SPAN’s podcast “The Weekly” – Listen to it on Christmas – or on any other day. Then come back the following week for our second year-ender… Part 2 of 2023 in Congress … It’s The Year of mentions of …. Well, you’ll just have to tune in to find out. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"I used to say it about 2016 -- this is the most election. And I meant it. This is now the most important election in the history of our country." --Donald Trump. October 7, 2023, Waterloo, Iowa. Just like he said in Erie, Pennsylvania, October 20, 2020: "This is the most important election in the history of our country." A year before the next presidential election, it's time to ask the enduring question: Will this be the most important election in your lifetime? Or perhaps in the history of our country? If the history of campaign rhetoric is any guide, the answer is yes... Just like every presidential election before it. Who said prior elections were the most important ever? Find out in the latest episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly." Make your donation at: c-span.org/donate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Congratulations to the Texas Rangers… Winner of the 2023 World Series. And congratulations to a former part-owner of the baseball team … and a former President. Game 1 of the 2023 World Series began with George W. Bush throwing out the ceremonial first pitch. It was the fourth time George W. Bush threw out a ceremonial first pitch in a World Series game. And the second time when the Arizona Diamondbacks were playing. The Diamondbacks lost both games – and both games by one run. What did George Bush think about being a part owner of the Texas Rangers? What did he consider his biggest mistake with the team? And what are his thoughts in general about baseball? Find out in the latest episode of C-SPAN’s podcast “The Weekly” – as we hear from George W. Bush – a former president … and a former part owner of the new world champions of baseball. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The actions taken within this body are delicate, and consistency is essential. Now is not the time to set a dangerous precedent. Consider this: The last time a Member of Congress was expelled was in 2002, following a criminal conviction. In fact, both expulsions in the last two centuries took place after the defendants had been convicted. That was Rep. George Santos (R-NY) November 1, 2023… The House was debating whether to expel him from Congress. They voted overwhelmingly not to. You probably know many details of the George Santos story. But his mention of a member of Congress expelled in 2002 - Do you know that story? House resolution 495 Resolved, That, pursuant to Article I, Section 5, Clause 2 of the United States Constitution, Representative James A. Traficant, Jr., be, and he hereby is, expelled from the House of Representatives And thus the House clerk began the floor debate, July 24, 2002. ..In the latest episode of C-SPAN’s podcast “The Weekly,” we remember the last time members of Congress voted to expel a fellow member … That Congressman: Ohio Democrat James Traficant . • Why did he get expelled? • What did he say in his defense? • And what about his famous catch phrase: Beam Me Up? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"As thanksgiving nears, a seasonal gift to President Eisenhower is this strutting, impressive Tom Turkey. Handsomest bird in all Nebraska. And perhaps the other 47 states as well All the trimmings for the White House dinner come with him A Big basket of cranberries to complete the holiday platter. It's a lucky bird that graces the President's table. And he's gobbling with excitement at the prospect." Hey ... wait a minute ... that's not funny at all.. Thanksgiving and turkey and the White House -- but where are the jokes? Sure, it was a news report from 1955 about President Eisenhower pardoning the Thanksgiving turkey. But isn't there supposed to be original -- sometimes hilarious, sometimes painful -- presidential humor about turkeys? Well, give thanks for the latest episode of C-SPAN's "The Weekly." Because in this podcast, we're stuffed with Presidential comedy -- Presidents pardoning Thanksgiving turkeys -- and the jokes they told. ... Which jokes were a huge hit? Which jokes were guaranteed groaners? You get to decide ... just by listening to "The Weekly." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"On November 22, 1963, at precisely 12:30 PM, John Fitzgerald Kennedy, the youthful 35th President of the United States drove triumphantly into this square, where hundreds waited to cheer him...and where another waited as well. Seconds later a dying President sped away from Dealey Plaza -- into history, into legend, into a national nightmare of suspicion that persists to this day." --Walter Cronkite, opening a special four-part CBS News inquiry on the Warren Report, June 25, 1967 Walter Cronkite said suspicion about the Kennedy assassination persists to this day. He said that in 1967. But it also applies to 2023. In the latest episode of C-SPAN's "The Weekly" - we mark the 60th anniversary of the Kennedy assassination by focusing on one specific surviving artifact from November 1963 ... The Zapruder film. … We hear how the Zapruder film was reported on that CBS News inquiry into the Warren Report -- and we even hear from Abraham Zapruder himself. What did CBS News say about the Zapruder film four years after the Kennedy assassination? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Now there's another way you can tell you're a Republican. You have faith in free enterprise, faith in the resourcefulness of the American people, and faith in the U.S. economy. And to those critics who are so pessimistic about our economy, I say: 'Don't be economic girlie men!'" California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger – speaking at the 2004 Republican National Convention.. Quite a choice: Free enterprise or economic girlie men. Wondering who inspired Arnold Schwarzenegger's economic view of the world? The answer: Milton Friedman. And what inspired this episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly"? "Books that Shaped America" – the C-SPAN original series which next week features Free to Choose – by Milton Friedman. This is a second installment of a special two-part episode of "The Weekly" in support of C-SPAN's series "Books that Shaped America" and the upcoming episode on "Free to Choose," This week's podcast is all about Arnold Schwarzenegger and Milton Friedman. In last week's podcast, we heard from Presidents Reagan, Bush 41, Bush 43, Biden, several candidates for the presidency -- and even Margaret Thatcher. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly" presents a special two-parter on Milton Friedman. In support of C-SPAN's series "Books that Shaped America" and the upcoming episode on "Free to Choose," The Weekly hears from politicians who both worship and reject Milton Friedman's economic theories. In this first part, hear directly from Presidents Reagan, Bush 41, Bush 43, Biden, several candidates for the presidency -- and even Margaret Thatcher. In next week's second installment -- hear from just one politician, a big admirer of Milton Friedman: Arnold Schwarzenegger. Find C-SPAN's "The Weekly" wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well, it's another odd year in politics. And by odd year, we don't mean what's happening in politics. We mean – the year itself. Every odd year we get a new Almanac of American Politics. There are at least two things we can be sure happen in politics every two years: (1) elections for Congress; and (2) the publication of a new and updated Almanac of American Politics. With a collection of best-of mentions on C-SPAN, the latest episode of "The Weekly" marks the latest edition of a political reference icon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"I have defended the Second Amendment more than any Member of this body, and I am a past member of the board of directors of NRA and a life member of that body. " That was a member of the U.S. House of Representatives … speaking on the floor of Congress ... in 2012 ... Past NRA board member ... life member of the NRA... defender of the Second Amendment. So, the latest episode of C-SPAN's "The Weekly" obviously is about a Republican, right? Nope... would you believe -- a Democrat? Who was that Democrat? Here's a hint: he holds the record for longest-serving member of Congress in American history. Still stumped? Don't fret: Listen to "The Weekly" for the big reveal. Find C-SPAN's "The Weekly" wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"This past Sunday, at 22 minutes after 6 Beirut time, with dawn just breaking, a truck, looking like a lot of other vehicles in the city, approached the airport on a busy, main road. There was nothing in its appearance to suggest it was any different than the trucks or cars that were normally seen on and around the airport. But this one was different. At the wheel was a young man on a suicide mission The truck carried some 2,000 pounds of explosives, but there was no way our marine guards could know this." That was President Ronald Reagan -- addressing the nation -- October 1983. What happened next? And what have other presidents since Ronald Reagan said about that day in October 1983? Find out in the latest episode of C-SPAN's "The Weekly" -- as we mark the 40th anniversary of the Beirut Marine Barracks terror bombing. Find C-SPAN's "The Weekly" wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Mr. President, I feel compelled to address head on, I mean head on, the news stories in recent weeks that have pointed out the shocking discovery, yes, shocking discovery, that I am growing older. Did you get that? Shocking discovery that I am growing older." And with that opening, Senator Robert Byrd (D-WV) addressed the U.S. Senate ... June 28, 2007. Thus began one of the most notable speeches given in the Senate in modern times about age ... and still today a textbook example of how a politician might handle questions about age. With abundant conversation these days about the advanced age of politicians on both sides, in the latest episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly," we remember one specific speech made by one specific politician who addressed the age issue directly. What did Senator Byrd say next that people still talk about today? Find out in "The Weekly." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

30 years ago: The battle of Mogadishu. October 3rd and 4th,1993 in Somalia: 18 American soldiers killed ... 73 wounded ... and one captured in a street battle with the forces of Somali warlord Mohamed Aidid. In the latest episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly," we mark that 30th anniversary ... What is now commonly remembered by the book and movie title Black Hawk Down was a deadly two days for American military and foreign policy... it sparked strong real-time disagreements and anger in Congress ... and it's still cited among policy-makers today. What were the answers to the questions President Clinton asked the nation on October 7, 1993? Find out in "The Weekly." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's part II of "The Weekly"'s special two-episode look at Emmy Award-winning -- and Emmy Award-nominated -- TV shows being cited by candidates on the presidential campaign trail! In this latest episode, we go in-depth with one particular show -- and one particular candidate: "I welcome the debate with Hollywood. Even if it occasionally flares up into what the New York Times yesterday called a war. But the debate does not justify distortion. An Emmy is not a license to lie" Who was that? When was that? What show was he talking about? And ... what was the war? Find out in the latest episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly." It's the thrilling conclusion of our two-part Emmy special. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 2023 Emmy Awards had been scheduled for September 18th ... But because of the writers and actors strike in Hollywood, they won't be held until next year ... January 15th -- which happens to be the same day as the Iowa Republican Party's first-in-the-nation presidential caucus. Distraught by the delay? Can't wait for either the Emmys or Iowa? The C-SPAN podcast "The Weekly" to the rescue! We're marking what would have been Emmys week in our own way: Top moments in presidential campaigns featuring Emmy-nominated and Emmy-winning TV shows. Every person you'll hear was a presidential candidate -- or campaigning for a presidential candidate -- and every TV show you'll hear them talk about won -- or was nominated for -- an Emmy .... Because in this podcast, C-SPAN's The Weekly goes to the Emmys ... or, more accurately, the Emmys come to C-SPAN's "The Weekly." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"The hope of a skinny kid with a funny name who believes that America has a place for him, too." That was Vivek Ramaswamy during the recent Republican presidential candidates debate - on Fox. Oh wait -- no it wasn't -- that wasn't Vivek Ramaswamy at all. Let's try that again. That was Barack Obama, delivering the keynote address at the 2004 Democratic National Convention - on C-SPAN. Many observers said Vivek Ramaswamy sounded a lot like Barack Obama when he said during the Fox debate: "Who the heck is this skinny guy with a funny last name." Everyone singled out future president Obama's 2004 keynote speech for the comparison ... but there were other times Barack Obama said he was a skinny kid with a funny name ... and so have other candidates. As you'll hear in the latest episode of C-SPAN's "The Weekly" -- it's a podcast all about skinny kids with funny names who grew up to be politicians. Find C-SPAN's "The Weekly" wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"When we were vacationing on Martha's Vineyard on two different occasions we went sailing off Martha's Vineyard, and James Taylor was a member of the crew. It wasn't such a great thing watching him work the ropes and the sails , although that was truly impressive -- though when we go to a calm sea-- he sang for us. And the stars were out, there was a moon out, and the water calm. It was something that none of us will ever forget." Ah, summertime on Martha's Vineyard… Just as President Bill Clinton remembered – in 1997. When he was president, Bill Clinton and his family often went to Martha's Vineyard for summer vacations. What are family memories from those trips? Who did they meet? What did others say about being with the Clintons on Martha Vineyard? Which terrorist did President Clinton launch a strike against while on vacation on Martha's Vineyard? And where did other Presidents go on vacations – and what did they say about vacations? Find out in the latest episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"It is great to be here. Honestly. It's so great to be out of the tough backbiting world of Hollywood and into the benign and polite world of New York book publishing." That was comedian Steve Martin, appearing on a book panel on BookTV on September 27, 1998... It was just two weeks after BookTV started on C-SPAN, 25 years ago -- and it was one of the earliest programs seen on BookTV. Steve Martin made four more appearances on BookTV -- all hosting the National Book Awards.. Decades later, Steve Martin is now co-starring in the hit streaming series "Only Murders in the Building." We'd like to think we gave him his big break. Even if that's not entirely true... here's something that is: If you like Steve Martin, you'll love the latest episode of C-SPAN's "The Weekly"... Because in this podcast, we mark the 25th anniversary of BookTV in a wild and crazy way: by presenting the best of Steve Martin on BookTV. Find C-SPAN's "The Weekly" wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

BRIGADIER GENERAL PAT RYDER: "All right, let me do one more from the phone here. Jeff Schogol, Task & Purpose. JEFF SCHOGOL: "Thank you. Does the DOD know for a fact that Prigozhin is still alive or are we in a Weekend at Bernie's scenario right now?" The premise of that question? The June mutiny against Russian president Vladimir Putin. Who got the question? Defense Department Spokesperson Brigadier General Pat Ryder. But the latest episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly" isn't about President Putin. And it's not about General Ryder. It's about the person who asked the question. Jeff Schogol. He's the Pentagon reporter for Task & Purpose ... and he poses some of the sharpest, most difficult, and sometimes most entertaining questions you can get at a Defense Department press briefing. Want to hear the best examples of his work? Listen to the latest episode of "The Weekly." It's the best of Jeff Schogol ... covering the Pentagon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You might think Cory Booker and Aaron Bean have nothing in common. One is a tenured Democratic Senator from a blue state (New Jersey) … the other is a freshman Republican Congressman from a red district (in Florida). But they do share one thing – they both seem to get a kick out of presiding over their chambers. What does it sound like two politicians with seemingly different politics have a common characteristic– enlivening floor proceedings with zest and zeal? Find out in the latest episode of the C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly." It's Cory Booker and Aaron Bean like you've never heard them before. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"There is that Eddie Murphy skit where Eddie Murphy is on a bus and he's the only Black person on the bus, and no one is speaking, like people in an elevator. Just sort of stand there and watch. Silently. But Eddie Murphy gets off the bus, leaving only whites, and they immediately pull off their out garments, they have part outfits beneath, they start drinking champagne, the band strikes up. So to some extent .this could be happening when I leave the Court" That was Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas -- July 25, 1997. Even though that was over a quarter century ago, controversies surrounding Clarence Thomas are very much in the news today as well. So the latest episode of the C-SPAN podcast "The Weekly" is about Clarence Thomas, right? Actually, no. It's a podcast about the person Clarence Thomas cited: Eddie Murphy... Because… it's always a good time to talk about Eddie Murphy – and politics. So why not do it now? And thus -- the latest episode of "The Weekly": What we can learn about politicians -- from Eddie Murphy ...a Nutty Professor of Politics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Before I took up my current line of work, I got to know a thing or two about negotiating when I represented the Screen Actors Guild in contract talks with the studios. After the studios, Gorbachev was a snap." That was Ronald Reagan --- speaking to the Chamber of Commerce -- November 17, 1988 --- one of his final speeches as president. The topic of the speech: world trade and world economics. But that's not the topic of the July 27, 2023, episode of C-SPAN'S "The Weekly." In the latest episode of "The Weekly"-- as the actors and writers strikes continue to shut down Hollywood -- we remember Ronald Reagan -- but not as president of the United States of America. Instead, as president of the Screen Actors Guild. And his role in the 1960 strike -- the last time Hollywood actors and writers were on strike at the same time. • What were his memories from those days? • And what did other Hollywood stars -- and studio heads -- say about Ronald Reagan's leadership during the 1960 strike? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"New beginnings" indeed! That was Dr. Barry Black ... July 7, 2003 .... his first opening prayer in the U.S. Senate. This month marks 20 years since Dr. Black became Senate chaplain. And in C-SPAN's "The Weekly," we hear some of his most notable prayers from those two decades. How did we select the prayers? Well, we asked Dr. Black himself! His responses to C-SPAN Radio's "The Weekly" are what you'll hear in this podcast. A Barry Black Pray List! Find out which prayers he chose as his favorites in the latest episode of "The Weekly." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

During the summer of 1991, Soviet Communist hardliners tried to seize control of the country from Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev. Now the summer of 2023 – an attempted mutiny against Russian President Vladimir Putin. With that backdrop – the latest episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly" goes back and remembers the 1991 coup attempt in the Soviet Union – and we do it through the words of then-American President George H. W. Bush . Like Day One of the attempted coup, August 19, 1991. President Bush: " I've said over and over again that we did not want to see a coup backed by the KGB and the military, and apparently that is what is underway I think it's also important to note that coups can fail. They can take over at first, and then they run up against the will of the people." What happened next? And what did President Bush say in response? Listen to the latest episode of C-SPAN's podcast "The Weekly" to find out. Find C-SPAN's "The Weekly" wherever you get podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Who needs the Major League Baseball All Star game when you have All-Star plays like that one -- in the Congressional Baseball Game ... This year, freshman Democratic Representative from California Kevin Mullin made that all-star catch playing left field. The big league All Star Game is approaching (July 11, Seattle) ... but you might not be interested ... you might want good, alternate, yet still baseball-themed programming -- Well, here's one idea ... listen to the latest episode of C-SPAN's "The Weekly" ... it's the top moments from C-SPAN's coverage of the Congressional Baseball Game … over the years -- both on and off the field…. Highlights, hits, and hugs … via the C-SPAN Video library. As the classic baseball song goes: Take Me Out To the Archives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices