The NPR Politics Podcast Weekly Roundup: January 14th
Jan 14, 2022
Kelsey Snell, NPR's congressional correspondent, provides a fresh perspective on the political landscape. The Supreme Court's recent ruling against Biden’s vaccine mandate for large businesses raises questions about federal authority. Snell discusses the implications for public health policy and businesses. Tensions in the Senate over a contentious voting rights proposal reveal divisions among Democrats, particularly regarding the filibuster. This dynamic reflects the urgent challenges facing Congress ahead of the midterms.
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Biden's Call for Mandates
- Biden urged states and individual employers to mandate vaccines.
- Some employers, like United Airlines, have seen success with mandates, while others might hesitate.
Healthcare Mandate Upheld
- The court upheld the healthcare worker mandate, citing "first do no harm" ethics and federal funding.
- Medicare/Medicaid funding allows the government to impose conditions, like vaccine mandates.
Biden's COVID Strategy Challenged
- With vaccine mandates partially blocked, Biden's COVID strategy faces challenges.
- Cases are soaring, and a significant part of his plan is now ineffective.