Republicans Take Control of Congress — and Harris Certifies Her Own Loss
Jan 7, 2025
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Catie Edmonson, a Congressional correspondent for The New York Times, shares insights into the early days of Republican control in Congress. She discusses the challenges Speaker Mike Johnson faces amid internal party strife and the ultra-conservative factions pushing for strict alignment with Trump's agenda. The conversation dives into the emotional certification of electoral votes, highlighting Vice President Harris's poignant moment overseeing the confirmation of her opponent. Edmonson reveals the delicate balancing act within the party as they navigate shifts in power and past grievances.
The Republican-controlled Congress is determined to advance Donald Trump's agenda despite significant internal strife and divisions within the party.
Speaker Mike Johnson's narrow re-election underscores the precarious balance of power he must navigate amid pressures from hard-right Republicans.
Deep dives
Pursuit of Trump's Agenda in Congress
The Republican-controlled Congress is committed to implementing Donald Trump's agenda despite internal conflicts. The January 6 electoral vote certification event highlighted the pro forma nature of this process, contrasting sharply with the chaotic events of four years ago. As Congress certified Trump's win, there was a clear sense of both relief and tension among lawmakers regarding the unity needed to move forward. There is an awareness of raw divisions within the Republican party, particularly among ultra-conservative fiscal hawks who have expressed dissatisfaction with leadership decisions about government spending.
Management of House Divisions
The dynamics within the House have become tumultuous, especially with Speaker Mike Johnson facing dissent from a faction of hard-right Republicans. These ultra-conservatives have continuously pressured leadership over spending practices, which they feel disregard their principles. Mike Johnson barely won re-election, aided by persuasion from Donald Trump during a pivotal phone call, illuminating the delicate balance of power he must maintain. As lawmakers seek to assert their influence, they have already sent warning signals to Johnson, emphasizing their expectations for more alignment with their demands.
Senate Stability Amidst House Turmoil
In contrast to the drama unfolding in the House, the Senate has seen a smoother transition of power, with John Thune assuming leadership without major contention. Thune’s rise reflects a desire among Republican senators for institutional stability, distancing themselves from the more radical approaches of some House members. His relationship with Trump is cautious but acknowledges alignment on key issues, highlighting a potential for collaboration. This difference in dynamics between the two chambers may complicate efforts to pass Trump's agenda, as House divisions may inhibit cohesive action across both legislative bodies.
During their first few days in power, the Republican-controlled House and Senate vowed to put aside their furious intraparty battles to make Donald J. Trump’s sweeping agenda the law of the land.
Catie Edmonson, a congressional correspondent for The New York Times, discusses how likely that actually is.
Guest: Catie Edmondson, a congressional correspondent for The New York Times
For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday.
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