Uphill

Every Tuesday and Friday, The Dispatch staff draw on their deep well of sources to shed light on congressional policy debates—and the people behind them.

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The House Could Become Even More of a Wild West This Year

In his speakership bid, Kevin McCarthy has promised conservatives open debate on spending bills.

The Biggest Questions Ahead of Today’s Speakership Election

Does Kevin McCarthy have a chance to appease his Freedom Caucus critics?

Congress to Send Spending Bill to Biden’s Desk

A look at what made the cut.

Rep. Mike Gallagher’s Plans for the Select Committee on China

Hearings, legislative priorities, and some outside-the-box ideas.

Omnibus Wrangling in Full Swing

Lawmakers consider a sweeping year-end funding package.

The New Congress Could Bring Endless Showdowns

A look at one point of procedural leverage for House Republicans.

Congress Moves Forward With Defense Policy Bill

It includes assistance for Taiwan, weapons supply chain boosts, and a ban on Chinese semiconductor chips.

What Will the Next Congress Prioritize on China?

An interview with Rep. Chris Smith, plus a look at a bill condemning genocide in Ukraine.

The Messy Speakership Battle to Come

Mystery candidates, McCarthy’s math, and how a compromise might emerge.

On Protests in China, Is Less More?

Plus: Kevin McCarthy mulls the math for his speakership bid, and what comes next for the January 6 committee.

Explaining the Right’s Debate Over the Senate’s Gay Marriage Bill

Religious freedom advocates don’t all agree on the Respect for Marriage Act.

The End of the Pelosi Era

Plus: An interview with former House Speaker Paul Ryan.

House Republicans Choose Their Fighter

Plus: Will moderates flex any muscle? And a look at Democrats’ debt ceiling calculus.

The Freedom Caucus’ Reform Opportunity

A narrow Republican majority would give the group tremendous leverage over House leadership.

Investigations and Impeachments

Republicans prepare to take back the House—and make life difficult for President Joe Biden.

All Eyes on the House

What are Republicans’ plans if they take the majority?