Johnson ‘optimistic’ about Hegseth: ‘We believe in redemption’ 

Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) on Saturday said he was “optimistic” about the path forward for Pete Hegseth, President-elect Trump’s controversial pick to lead the Pentagon. “I’m optimistic about it. I’ve talked to a number of senators personally on the Hill just over the last couple of days and it seems like the momentum’s moving the…

The Memo: Populist rage comes to forefront in reaction to UnitedHealthcare CEO’s killing

The reaction to the killing of health insurance executive Brian Thompson is the latest example of the strength of visceral anti-elite sentiment coursing through the country. Even though the motive for the killing of Thompson, 50, is not yet clear, the gunman’s actions have drawn out antagonism toward the health insurance industry in general. Social…