The new Congress may struggle to push a progressive agenda
News Source
β’Wed, 04 Nov 2026 17:05:09 +0000
π° What Happened
Democrats won a historic victory in the 2026 midterms, but Donald Trump is still president for two more years. In this analysis, Josh Paul says the new Congress has three paths: block Trump, promote ideas for 2028, and work with the White House where it can.
Blocking means trying to end the Iran war, rejecting judicial nominees, curbing ICE detention and investigating Trump's finances. Message bills would cover tax reform, defence cooperation and aid to Israel.
Most of these bills face a presidential veto. Rules for artificial intelligence are named as one area where both sides might agree, though Trump's donors may fight it.
π The Backstory
US midterms often cut against the party holding the White House. This year Democrats took Congress while Trump kept the presidency, setting up two years of divided government.
Divided government usually produces little new law. Presidents use vetoes, while Congress uses hearings, investigations and the power to block appointments. Voters then judge both sides at the next election.
Democrats also face pressure from their own supporters, who expect quick results on the war and on living costs after a big win.
π― Why It Matters
What Congress passes or blocks decides what help families get and whether the Iran war continues. It also shapes the choice voters face in 2028.
Democrats won a historic victory in the 2026 midterms, but Donald Trump is still president for two more years. In this analysis, Josh Paul says the new Congress has three paths: block Trump, promote ideas for 2028, and work with the White House where it can.
Blocking means trying to end the Iran war, rejecting judicial nominees, curbing ICE detention and investigating Trump's finances. Message bills would cover tax reform, defence cooperation and aid to Israel.
Most of these bills face a presidential veto. Rules for artificial intelligence are named as one area where both sides might agree, though Trump's donors may fight it.
US midterms often cut against the party holding the White House. This year Democrats took Congress while Trump kept the presidency, setting up two years of divided government.
Divided government usually produces little new law. Presidents use vetoes, while Congress uses hearings, investigations and the power to block appointments. Voters then judge both sides at the next election.
Democrats also face pressure from their own supporters, who expect quick results on the war and on living costs after a big win.
What Congress passes or blocks decides what help families get and whether the Iran war continues. It also shapes the choice voters face in 2028.