MNI POLITICAL RISK - Johnson Softens On Continuing Resolution

Executive Summary:

• House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) has softened his opposition to another Continuing Resolution as the first government funding deadline approaches. Focus will be on whether Johnson can negotiate another CR without prompting the same rebellion which ousted his predecessor Kevin McCarthy.
• Optimism that Senate negotiators can reach an agreement on US-Mexico border policy this week have cooled due to disagreements on presidential asylum authority.
• Secretary of State Antony Blinken is meeting with Israeli officials today as the threat of regional conflict grows and a rift between the US and Israel deepens.
• A winter storm may impact voter turnout in next week's Iowa caucuses.
• California Governor Gavin Newsom (D-CA) has scheduled a special election to fill the seat of former Speaker Kevin McCarthy.
• Former President Donald Trump will appear in a DC court today to hear oral arguments on whether he is immune from prosecution on election subversion.
• President Biden warned in a campaign speech yesterday that freedom, democracy, and the truth are “under assault in America.”
• Biden intends to stand by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin despite Republican accusations that Austin’s failure to disclose a medical emergency may have jeopardised national security.
• The Biden administration may release a final rule to reform contractor labour rights as soon as this week.
• Congressional tax writers are nearing a bipartisan deal to expand child tax credits and revive some business tax benefits.
• Poll of the Day: Nikki Haley has trimmed Trump’s lead in New Hampshire.

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MNIPOLRISKUSDaily090124.pdf