Government

Government

What’s the deal with UFOs?

In this edition of TPO Explains, we break down UFOs, explaining what's in the Pentagon's newly declassified UAP files, why they were released now, and what they do (and don't) reveal about alien life.

Government

Explaining The Voting Rights Act

In this edition of TPO Explains, we break down the Voting Rights Act, explaining why the 1965 law was needed, how the Supreme Court has narrowed it over the years, and why its Section 2 is back in the headlines.

Government

Why’s Everyone Talking About Redistricting?

In this edition of TPO Explains, we break down congressional redistricting, explaining how states redraw voting maps, why gerrymandering is controversial, and why some states are trying to redraw districts before the next census.

Government

A PSA on TSA… How’s It Work?

In this edition of TPO Explains, we break down the TSA, explaining why it was created after 9/11, how airport security rules evolved, and the ongoing debate over its role today.

Government

Why Does Congress Hold Hearings?

In this edition of TPO Explains, we break down congressional hearings, explaining how Congress gathers information, the different types of hearings, and their role in shaping laws and oversight.

Government

How Does the Secret Service Work?

In this edition of TPO Explains, we break down the Secret Service, explaining its dual role in protecting national leaders and investigating financial crimes, and how it carries out those missions.

Government

What’s the Deal with Autopens?

In this edition of TPO Explains, we break down autopens, explaining how the signature-replicating device works, why presidents and other public figures use it, and the debate over its use on official documents.

Government

How a Bill Actually Becomes a Law

In this edition of TPO Explains, we break down where federal laws come from, explaining how bills move through Congress, how few ultimately pass, and the steps required for a bill to become law.

Government

Explaining SNAP, Uncle Sam’s Nutrition Benefits Program

In this edition of TPO Explains, we break down SNAP, explaining how the federal food assistance program works, who qualifies, and the main arguments for expanding or limiting it.

Government

🪖 So... How Does the National Guard Work?

In this edition of TPO Explains, we break down the National Guard, explaining how it differs from active duty and reserves and how it can be deployed by both state governors and the president.

Government

Government Shutdowns in a Nutshell

In this edition of TPO Explains, we break down government shutdowns, explaining why they happen, what services stop or continue, and how Congress ultimately brings them to an end.