The Fox News Rundown From Washington: What Did Congress Accomplish in 2025?
Dec 28, 2025
Joining the conversation are Chad Pergram, Fox News Chief Congressional Correspondent known for his insightful analysis on Capitol Hill, and Congressman Mike Lawler from New York, who focuses on healthcare policy. They delve into the tumultuous events of 2025, including the longest government shutdown and the contentious 'Big Beautiful Bill' negotiations. Lawler discusses extending ACA subsidies and innovative solutions for healthcare reform. They also touch on the political landscape ahead of the critical 2026 midterms.
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Narrow Majority Drove Congressional Tradeoffs
- The 119th Congress faced a narrow GOP majority that constrained Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Leader John Thune's ability to pass an expansive agenda quickly.
- That narrowness forced tradeoffs between confirmations, major legislation, and keeping the government funded.
Health Care Fight Triggered Long Shutdown
- Democrats withheld funding votes in fall 2025 to press on health-care subsidies, contributing to a 43-day shutdown.
- That tactic aimed to leverage expiring ACA tax credits to extract concessions.
Gaetz Nomination Set The Tone
- Matt Gaetz's nomination to be attorney general triggered early alarm and eventually withdrawal before hearings, illustrating Senate 'advice and consent'.
- That episode signaled Republicans would vet and sometimes block controversial Trump picks.