**Trailer:**

*Step inside the chaotic halls of Congress, where power struggles, scandals, and outrageous antics unfold daily. In *Mad House*, New York Times journalists Annie Karni and Luke Broadwater pull back the curtain on the epic dysfunction of the Trump-era Republican leadership—revealing the shocking, often absurd battles that brought the U.S. government to its knees. From Marjorie Taylor Greene’s feuds to Kevin McCarthy’s desperate bid for power, this explosive book uncovers the untold stories behind the headlines. With unprecedented access and razor-sharp reporting, Karni and Broadwater expose how a group of MAGA extremists turned Congress into a circus—and why the damage may be irreversible. Buckle up for a wild ride through the madness that broke American politics.*

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**Paraphrased Digest:**

Covering politics for *The New York Times* is no easy task, especially when tracking the relentless chaos of the Trump-era Republican House. Journalist Annie Karni, who also contributes to MSNBC, has turned her firsthand experience into *Mad House*, a gripping new book co-written with congressional correspondent Luke Broadwater. The book dives into the “epic dysfunction” of Congress under MAGA leadership, filled with infighting, scandals, and legislative paralysis.

In an interview with *Vogue*, Karni explained their research approach: revisiting major political moments—like Kevin McCarthy’s grueling speaker battle or near-government shutdowns—weeks later to uncover untold details. Politicians, she found, were more candid when speaking for a book rather than daily news.

The book highlights how the 118th Congress reached new levels of dysfunction, with Republicans more focused on internal feuds than governing. Karni also examines figures like Rep. Nancy Mace, whose recent extremist turn reflects the broader radicalization within the GOP. *Mad House* is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand how American politics spiraled into chaos—and who’s to blame.**Paraphrased Summary with a Trailer:**

Nancy Mace, once seen as a rare moderate Republican who criticized Trump after January 6, has fully embraced MAGA extremism to advance her political ambitions. She openly admitted that opposing Trump would stall her career—a candid revelation that highlights the GOP’s current reality. Now, she’s pushing hardline stances even further than Trump himself, targeting figures like transgender Congresswoman Sarah McBride. Meanwhile, figures like Marjorie Taylor Greene have learned to manipulate media attention, feeding reporters insider details to shape narratives.

**Trailer (Engaging Hook):**
*”What happens when ambition overrides principle? Nancy Mace’s political transformation reveals the ruthless calculus of power in today’s GOP—where loyalty to Trump isn’t just expected, it’s the only path forward. But she’s not alone. From Marjorie Taylor Greene’s media games to Nancy Pelosi’s power heels, the unspoken rules of political survival are louder than ever. Dive into the high-stakes world of Washington’s sharpest operators—where every move, every quote, and even every shoe choice is a calculated play for dominance.”*

**Key Points:**
– Mace shifted from moderate to MAGA extremist to climb the GOP ladder.
– Republicans crave mainstream media coverage despite attacking it.
– Internal GOP conflicts create opportunities for investigative reporting.
– Pelosi’s fashion (like her iconic heels) is a deliberate power signal.**Trailer:**

When Nancy Pelosi returned to Congress after her recovery, everyone was shocked—not by her political moves, but by her footwear. Gone were her signature heels, replaced first by Merrill clogs and now by stylish Chloé sneakers. Behind her wardrobe? Her husband, Paul Pelosi, who handpicks her designer suits (and likely those sneakers too). But this isn’t just about fashion—it’s a statement. Unlike aging male lawmakers like Mitch McConnell, who resist canes to avoid appearing weak, Pelosi embraces practicality without losing her power. Walkers, flats, or sneakers—she’s still Pelosi, proving strength isn’t in the shoes but in the stride.

**Digest:**
The text discusses Nancy Pelosi’s shift in footwear after returning to Congress, trading her usual heels for Merrill clogs and later Chloé sneakers—likely chosen by her husband, Paul Pelosi, who manages her wardrobe. Unlike male counterparts like Mitch McConnell, who reject mobility aids to avoid seeming frail, Pelosi adapts without hesitation, using a walker and comfortable shoes while maintaining her authority. Her choices reflect confidence, contrasting with the vanity of other aging lawmakers. The piece highlights how power isn’t about appearances but resilience.

*(Excerpt from *Mad House*, a book dissecting Congress’s dysfunction under Trump-era politics.)*