Amy Phan West is a Councilmember at her local government. She specializes in general assignment news with a focus on government and politics, bringing insightful coverage to her community's most pressing issues. Amy's work has been featured in NewsBreak, STAT News, Knowledia, JD Supra, Tom's Guide, and Yahoo News.
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By: Amy West
If you're over 50 or know someone who is, you may think Congress's job is as described in the Schoolhouse Rock video "I'm Just a Bill' from 1975. Except for the way it leaves out lobbying activity, it's a pretty good description of how Congress is supposed to work. At least, it is if you assume that Congress's primary job is to pass or repeal laws including laws to fund the government (aka appropriations).
By: Amy West
The sci-fi series last installment is currently filming
One characteristic of the current Trump Administration has been a disregard for laws if they don't align with Administration goals. One of the most influential members of the Administration, both in terms of influence on Trump himself as well as control over the flow of funds from the government, is the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, Russell Vought. He said in 2024
By: Amy West
Here's your lowdown on It: Welcome to Derry season 2
On Wednesday, May 15, the Senate confirmed Kevin Warsh to be the next chair of the Federal Reserve board 54-45. Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) was the lone Democrat who voted for him. Not only was the nearly party-line vote unusual, but everything around this move from the now former chair, Jerome Powell, to Warsh has been unusual as noted by CNN. Warsh become the new chair today, May 15, 2026.
By: Amy West
It was a fairly weird week in Congress, with lots of votes including on the Iran War and Republicans failing to move forward on major agenda items.
