FiveThirtyEight Politics Will Trump's Agenda Make It Through Congress?
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Jan 23, 2025 Rachael Bade, Senior Washington correspondent at Politico and contributing political correspondent at ABC News, dives deep into the complex landscape of Congress after Trump's second term kick-off. She examines the immediate impact of Trump's executive orders and the mixed reactions to his pardons related to the January 6th riots. The discussion highlights the legislative challenges his agenda faces, particularly regarding border security and tax reform, while revealing the intricate political maneuvers within both parties.
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Republican Response to Pardons
- Congressional Republicans are concerned about Trump's pardons of January 6 rioters, especially those involving violence against law enforcement.
- Many Republicans are choosing to fall in line despite their concerns, prioritizing party unity over challenging Trump.
Congressional Reactions to Trump's Proposals
- Moderate House Republicans introduced bills supporting Trump's ideas like annexing Greenland, indicating eagerness to align with him.
- Some conservatives pushed back privately, particularly against annexing Canada, concerned about potential Democratic gains.
Differing Goals of Trump and Congress
- Trump, being term-limited, views his second term as a last hurrah, prioritizing his agenda over electoral consequences.
- Republicans in Congress, facing re-election, must balance Trump's priorities with public opinion and their own political futures.