WASHINGTON — President-elect Donald Trump has expressed enthusiasm for a comprehensive legislative approach encapsulated in a “one, big beautiful bill” to address his key priorities. However, following an extended private discussion with Republican senators, he appears flexible about alternative methods as party leaders are eager to craft a unifying strategy ahead of their returning authority in Washington.
Trump shared his excitement regarding his return to the U.S. Capitol, marking his first visit since leaving office four years ago, a trip that coincided with the tribute to the late President Jimmy Carter, who was laid in state in the Rotunda. Along with his wife, Melania, he acknowledged the late president ahead of the upcoming funeral services.
As Trump is set to officially assume the presidency again on January 20, the opportunity for swift action is crucial. “We’re assessing the single versus dual bill approach, but the method is secondary to the outcome,” Trump remarked on the differing strategies discussed. Notably, he reiterated this perspective even after over 90 minutes of engaging dialogue with GOP senators, expressing determination to achieve results, irrespective of the bill structure.
His reappearance at Capitol Hill symbolizes a notable shift in Washington’s political landscape, reminiscent of the turbulent events four years prior when his supporters attacked the Capitol, causing chaos and forcing lawmakers into hiding. During the meeting, Trump was met with warm receptions and laughter from Republican senators, who lingered into the evening to discuss a range of subjects, from concerns about Canada and the Panama Canal to the wildfires in California, according to several senators.
The conversation circled vital issues for the GOP, including tax reforms, border security measures, funding for deportation efforts, and the advancement of oil and gas production, which are all central concerns as Republicans aim to solidify their power in the White House, Senate, and House. Trump first conferred privately with Senate Majority Leader John Thune and plans to engage with House GOP members over the weekend at his Mar-a-Lago estate.
Thune confirmed that both the Republican senators and Trump share a common goal, stating, “This is an ongoing dialogue.” Political leverage is particularly significant at the onset of a presidential term, especially considering this will be Trump’s second and final term due to constitutional constraints against a third run. Quick action is essential, given the narrow Republican majority, especially in the House, where House Speaker Mike Johnson can afford only minimal dissent.
Johnson, who welcomed Trump at the Capitol, likened his role to that of a quarterback, with Trump re-emerging as the strategic coach. However, this dynamic has led to some confusion, particularly as Trump has sent mixed signals regarding the preferred legislative approach. Initially advocating for a singular bill, he later entertained the possibility of introducing two.
In an attempt to navigate this ambiguity, Sen. John Hoeven proposed the idea of treating it like a race, emphasizing that what matters most is achieving the desired outcomes, despite Trump’s inclination toward a single comprehensive bill.
To facilitate the enactment of Trump’s priorities, Republicans plan to leverage the budget reconciliation process, a legislative tool that allows for bills to pass with a simple majority and avoids potential Senate filibusters. However, reconciliation presents its own challenges, being a complex, time-sensitive method that could unravel at any moment. Previous administrations, including the Obama administration for the Affordable Care Act and Trump’s first term for the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, have employed this strategy to push through significant legislation without bipartisan support.
On the Democratic front, opposition is anticipated, with House Democratic Caucus Chairman Pete Aguilar warning against proposals that he claims would favor the wealthy while undermining crucial social services. He criticized Republicans for their closed-door strategy and focus on tax cuts benefiting the affluent.
Thune indicated there’s potential to pass a significant bill within the first month of Trump’s administration, highlighting proposals for border security and deportations, energy initiatives, and military funding, with tax reductions potentially following in a subsequent package.
Sen. Shelley Moore Capito from West Virginia, who invited Trump to meet with party members, suggested she’s open to both approaches but leans toward a dual-bill strategy to secure an early victory, thereby demonstrating commitment to the American public.
Trump is set to hold further discussions with House Republicans at Mar-a-Lago this weekend, where his ongoing football metaphor continues. “We’re organizing effective strategies, working in sync with our new head coach, President Trump,” Johnson commented on their collaborative efforts.
As Trump prepares to engage with Republican governors during a dinner event at Mar-a-Lago, some attendees like Nevada’s Gov. Joe Lombardo and Utah’s Gov. Spencer Cox have confirmed their participation. Throughout his first tenure, Trump was noted for frequently revising his decisions, leading Congress to adapt to his style of leadership. Colleagues like Sen. Markwayne Mullin have indicated, “Trump is keen on achieving all his objectives.”
