• Donald Trump's upcoming inauguration reveals a diverse lineup of religious leaders participating.
• House GOP faces internal conflicts over plans to link debt ceiling increases with disaster relief.
• Key GOP members express skepticism about federal aid for California amidst the debt discussions.
• Trump urges Congress to prioritize raising the debt ceiling ahead of his inauguration.

The upcoming inauguration of Donald Trump is attracting significant attention, especially following the leak of the inauguration program, which highlights a surprising mix of religious representatives. An imam, a Catholic bishop, a rabbi, and a MAGA televangelist are set to lead prayers during Trump and JD Vance's swearing-in ceremony on January 20, according to details obtained by The Daily Beast. The event will see Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh administering the oath to Vance, as Chief Justice John Roberts will do for Trump.

The inauguration ceremony will take place on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol, featuring Archbishop Timothy Michael Cardinal Dolan and Reverend Franklin Graham among others offering the invocation and benediction, respectively. Additionally, singer Carrie Underwood will perform "America the Beautiful." However, the representation of women in the inaugural program is limited, with just two of the thirteen names listed being female.

Meanwhile, House Republicans find themselves embroiled in conflicts as they return from a strategic retreat at Mar-a-Lago. A proposal to tie an increase in the debt ceiling to a disaster relief bill for California has encountered backlash from both conservative members and some Democrats, resulting in a tense atmosphere among GOP lawmakers. House Speaker Mike Johnson acknowledged that discussions had taken place regarding this plan but emphasized the lack of consensus.

House Freedom Caucus Chairman Andy Harris, upon return from a meeting with Trump, stated opposition to linking the debt ceiling to aid efforts, while others are concerned about allocating federal funds to California without ensuring accountability from state leadership. Republican Warren Davidson articulated his support for disaster victims but insisted on pressing California to adjust their governance.

The idea of connecting urgent financial matters, such as the debt ceiling and disaster relief, continues to be met with skepticism across the aisle. One senior Democratic source remarked on the notion of linking the two issues as “cute,” indicating resistance within their party to such negotiations amidst pressing financial obligations about the mounting national debt.

With the inauguration date approaching, Trump has insisted on a timely resolution regarding the debt ceiling, stating it should be a priority for Congress and President Joe Biden prior to him taking office, although this prospect seems increasingly uncertain as tensions within Congress mount.

For more details, check the original articles from The Daily Beast and The Daily Beast.