Episode 152: Inside the House Floor: Max Spitzer on Rules, Power, and Congressional Chaos
This week on the GovNavigators Show, Robert and Adam sit down with Max Spitzer, former Assistant Parliamentarian in the U.S. House of Representatives, for a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most misunderstood offices in Congress. Max explains how the House Parliamentarian keeps the chamber running day to day, from advising the presiding officer in real time to shaping precedent that governs how legislation moves. He shares stories from the House floor, including high-pressure moments during the 2008 financial crisis!
The conversation also dives into the mechanics of power in the House: how rules actually work, why the Rules Committee can override almost anything, and what would happen if control of the House flipped mid-Congress. Max also offers a candid take on congressional dysfunction, and why fixing the rules, not just the Speaker, may be the key to reform.
Show Notes:
OMB's FY27 budget proposal
OMB's new memo requiring IT spending data
GAO's emerging tech risks
Federal buildings fail to reach occupancy benchmark
What's on the GovNavigators' Horizon:
