THESE ARE SOME OF THE POWERS THE GOP CONGRESS USED TO HOLD

So the GOP Congress is becoming ‘disconcerted’ by the crazy of the Trump administration? If only these fretful Republicans belonged to some sort of governmental body that had the ability to limit or even stop these troublesome actions. One could imagine, say, a separate legislative body to check the executive, control spending, and vet unfit nominees. But that’s just a fantasy these days. Many of Republicans’ professed “concerns” would subside if they, for example, come back to the Capitol to: Negotiate a compromise on the ACA subsidies. Pass a War Powers Act resolution and use the power of the purse to head off Trump’s unilateral war designs. Recapture the power of the purse, disallowing executive rescissions. Reclaim the tariff power and end the trade war that will cost global businesses $1.2T (mostly passed on to consumers). Conduct oversight hearings on the weaponization of the Justice Department (including bogus vindictive prosecutions of Trump enemies), cases that Americans by a wide margin think are unjustified Hold Attorney General Pam Bondi in contempt if she refuses to answer questions and continues to insult lawmakers. Launch an investigation into mismanagement of the Pentagon Pass legislation that halts further White House desecration and bars spending any monies (private or public) on construction without congressional authorization. (Congress could also demand audit of the damage done and tally the cost to restore the historic White House). Bar any payment to Trump from the Justice Department until he leaves office. Start enforcing the Emoluments Clause prohibiting foreigners’ gifts and “investments” in Trump businesses. Shutter ICE facilities unless and until the regime abides by the law to allow immediate access for oversight by lawmakers. Investigate Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem’s spending on two private jets and mismanagement of DHS. Release every scrap of paper concerning Jeffrey Epstein and those that participated in or enabled his rape of hundreds of children. Only then will we the people believe any mealy-mouth, toothless protestations of ‘concern’ that we only read about and never see. Until then stop insulting us with your empty words. And why are you still getting your paychecks?