Rising Tensions and Conflicts in Congress

Unprecedented 10-week session contributes to altercations and prompts retirements

Overview

Republican Sen. Markwayne Mullin of Oklahoma challenged Sean O’Brien, general president of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, to a physical confrontation during a Senate hearing.
House Oversight Chairman Rep. James Comer and Democratic colleague Rep. Jared Moskowitz of Florida engaged in a verbal altercation, with Comer calling Moskowitz a 'smurf'.
Tennessee Republican Rep. Tim Burchett accused former Speaker Kevin McCarthy of elbowing him, a charge McCarthy denies.
Congress has been in session for an unprecedented 10 consecutive weeks, contributing to rising tensions and conflicts.
Several members of Congress have announced their retirement, citing frustration with the current state of the institution.