Democrats block DHS funding bill; Fetterman joins Republicans in vote, Michigan synagogue shooting suspect dead; Old Dominion attacker convicted ISIS supporter: Feds, and more | 3.13.26 - Rising Recap
Podcast: Rising
Published: 2026-03-13
Duration: 50 min
Summary
The Senate remains deadlocked over the DHS funding bill, with John Fetterman breaking ranks to vote with Republicans. Meanwhile, recent violent incidents at a Michigan synagogue and Old Dominion University highlight growing security concerns.
What Happened
The episode kicks off with the Senate's ongoing struggle to pass a funding bill for the Department of Homeland Security, a contentious issue with Democrats demanding reforms for ICE and Border Patrol. John Fetterman stands out as the only Democrat siding with Republicans, highlighting the political divisions and the personal toll on workers like TSA agents who face missed paychecks.
Attention shifts to the international stage, where tensions with Iran escalate. Iran's strategic blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is impacting global oil prices and causing domestic economic ripples. This unrest is framed within the broader context of President Trump's shifting foreign policy strategies and the potential economic fallout.
Domestically, violence erupts with a synagogue attack in Michigan, where the suspect, identified as Amen Mohamed Ghazali, is killed by law enforcement. This incident is part of a disturbing trend of anti-Semitic violence, raising alarms about security and sparking discussions on immigration and its politicization.
A separate attack at Old Dominion University by a convicted ISIS supporter leaves the community shaken. The suspect's quick neutralization by students underscores the ongoing threat of terrorism and the bravery of individuals caught in such crises.
The episode also delves into intra-party tensions within the Democratic Party, focusing on the generational divide highlighted by Representative James Clyburn's decision to run for re-election at 85. The move sparks debate about the need for fresh leadership versus the value of experience.
Finally, the episode touches on the controversy surrounding Congressman Ro Khanna and the Epstein Files Transparency Act. Accusations of political opportunism and misidentification of individuals linked to Epstein put Khanna on the defensive, illustrating the complex interplay of politics, justice, and media narratives.
Key Insights
- John Fetterman breaks ranks with his party, becoming the sole Democrat to vote with Republicans against a DHS funding bill. This move highlights stark political divisions and the real-life impact on federal employees like TSA agents who face pay disruptions.
- Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is not just a strategic maneuver but a catalyst for rising global oil prices, affecting economies worldwide. This tension intersects with Trump's fluctuating foreign policy, revealing the delicate balance of international diplomacy.
- Anti-Semitic violence in the U.S. takes a tragic turn with the Michigan synagogue attack by Amen Mohamed Ghazali, who was killed by law enforcement. This incident is part of a growing trend that sparks debates on immigration and security in domestic policy.
- The swift action of students at Old Dominion University in neutralizing a convicted ISIS supporter during an attack underscores the persistent threat of terrorism. It also showcases how individuals' courage can play a crucial role in crisis situations.
Key Questions Answered
What is the significance of John Fetterman's vote on the DHS funding bill on Rising?
John Fetterman's vote with Republicans breaks party lines, highlighting the complexities and internal divisions within the Democratic Party regarding DHS funding and immigration reform.
How does the Rising podcast describe Iran's impact on global oil prices?
Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has caused oil prices to surge, affecting the global economy and domestic gas prices, as discussed in the episode's geopolitical analysis.
Why is the Michigan synagogue attack significant according to Rising?
The attack underscores a troubling rise in anti-Semitic violence, sparking debates about security, immigration, and the politicization of such incidents, as explored in the podcast.