The reason Trump and the Republicans are racing against time is because recent history shows they won’t have full control of the White House and Congress for long.
Since one political party gained control of both Congress and the White House in the 1990s, their complete control of government has generally not lasted long.
The New York Times reported on the weak control of the Republican Party:
“We have the power,” Speaker Mike Johnson told reporters this week, saying he expected “the most important Congress of the modern era, the most important administration of the modern era.”
To Democrats still licking their wounds, it sounds like an overreach that could ultimately yield political benefits in two years. Of course, there’s always the possibility that Republicans could do such a good job that voters choose to keep the trifecta going. .
Democrats doubt it.
“Self-control is one of the most difficult leadership qualities to exercise, and we have seen little appetite for it in President Trump. Vermont Democratic Senator Peter Welch said:
Since Republicans broke Democratic control of the House and Senate in the 1990s, it has been nearly impossible for one party to maintain control of the White House and all of Congress for long periods of time. With Democrats moving closer to a majority by the 2026 midterm elections, it is very likely that the House will swing back to Democrats.
Flipping the Senate is always a longer process, but it wouldn’t be shocking if Democrats gained a seat or two when the midterm elections roll around.
Republicans are acting like they’re in a race. The biggest thing Republicans want is to extend tax cuts for the wealthy and corporations. Given the dysfunction of the Republican House, it may be the only big thing to get done before Democrats regain the majority.
