D.C. Debrief Extended: Lawmakers weigh in on Gaza proposal, trade tensions, and budget deadlines

Political Analyst Scott Mitchell and Washington Bureau Chief Alex Cameron discuss the latest political developments, including a proposal to rebuild Gaza, new tariffs on Canada and Mexico, and looming legislative deadlines.

A proposal to rebuild Gaza has drawn mixed reactions, but Oklahoma’s congressional delegation has largely remained silent on the issue.

The idea, floated by former President Donald Trump, has been met with support from Israeli leaders but skepticism from U.S. lawmakers.

"You at first, they're not sure what to believe, what to make of it, and the more you know time passes,” said Alex Cameron. "There's so many, so many questions about whether this would even be legal."

Sen. James Lankford was one of the few to comment, saying the U.S. should not take responsibility for the rebuilding effort.

Meanwhile, new tariffs on Canada and Mexico have raised diplomatic concerns. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau criticized the move, and while some lawmakers praised Trump’s stance, others questioned what the U.S. gained from the move.

"Much of the things that Canada and Mexico pledged were already in the works or had already been pledged. So, you know, was it a real victory for Trump?" said Cameron.

With major legislative deadlines approaching, including the March 14 government funding deadline and the need to raise the debt ceiling, Congress faces mounting pressure.