Trump threatens Insurrection Act after another MN shooting, Vance breaks tie to kill Venezuela War Powers Res., Trump attacks on Jerome Powell testing Fed's independence, And More: 1.15.26 - Rising Recap

Podcast: Rising

Published: 2026-01-15

Duration: 50 minutes

Guests: Thomas Massey

Summary

In a politically charged episode, Trump threatens to invoke the Insurrection Act following unrest in Minneapolis, while Vice President Vance's vote blocks a resolution limiting U.S. actions in Venezuela. The episode also examines Trump's impact on Fed independence and press freedom concerns following an FBI raid.

What Happened

Tensions are high in Minneapolis after a federal officer shot a man in the leg, sparking protests. This followed another incident involving ICE and the killing of Renee Good, leading President Trump to threaten using the Insurrection Act to quell unrest. This move reflects ongoing debates about federal responses to civil disturbances.

In a tight Senate vote, Vice President Vance cast the deciding vote to defeat a War Powers resolution aimed at limiting President Trump's military actions in Venezuela. The resolution's failure came after assurances that no American ground troops would be deployed, highlighting divisions within the GOP over foreign policy.

Trump's recent attacks on Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell have raised concerns about the Fed's independence. The administration is accused of exerting political pressure on Powell, with all living former Fed chairs publicly opposing such interference, underscoring the tension between political objectives and economic stability.

The episode also covers the FBI's controversial search of Washington Post reporter Hannah Nattinson's home. This action is part of a leak investigation involving Pentagon contractor Aurelio Perez Lugones, sparking fears about press freedom and government overreach.

In Michigan, auto worker TJ Sabula was suspended after heckling President Trump during a visit, raising over $800,000 through GoFundMe. His case reignites debates over free speech and employment rights, illustrating the complexities of political expression in the workplace.

Thomas Massey, a congressman known for his non-interventionist stance, clashed with Laura Loomer over foreign policy. Massey stated he often disagrees with his party when it involves supporting wars or policies he believes are detrimental, highlighting internal GOP tensions.

The episode is sponsored by Mint Mobile, which offers affordable wireless plans starting at $15 a month. This aligns with the show's theme of challenging established norms, in this case, the high cost of traditional wireless services.

Key Insights

• The Insurrection Act, which President Trump threatened to invoke after protests in Minneapolis, allows the President to deploy military forces within the United States to suppress civil disorder, insurrection, and rebellion. This act has been used sparingly in U.S. history, with the last invocation occurring during the 1992 Los Angeles riots.
• Vice President Vance cast the deciding vote in the Senate to defeat a War Powers resolution aimed at limiting U.S. military action in Venezuela. This decision came after assurances from the administration that no American ground troops would be deployed, reflecting internal GOP disagreements on foreign intervention.
• All living former Federal Reserve chairs publicly opposed President Trump's attacks on current Fed Chair Jerome Powell, citing concerns over political interference. The Federal Reserve's independence is considered crucial for maintaining economic stability and preventing political objectives from influencing monetary policy.
• The FBI's search of Washington Post reporter Hannah Nattinson's home is part of an investigation into leaks involving Pentagon contractor Aurelio Perez Lugones. This action has raised concerns about press freedom and potential government overreach in monitoring journalistic activities.