Congressional Republicans lose patience with Trump
Longtime Republican pollster Frank Luntz recently declared, “There is zero doubt tonight that Donald Trump is in complete and total control of the Republican Party.” His statement came after the president’s preferred candidate, Ken Paxton, primaried Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) in late May.
TL;DR
- Donald Trump is perceived to be in complete control of the Republican Party, evidenced by his preferred candidates winning primaries.
- Congressional Republicans are increasingly resisting or pushing back against Trump's policy initiatives.
- Legislative actions include bills to remove presidential power over certain appointments and to block funding for the president's initiatives.
- GOP senators refused to fire the Senate parliamentarian after she blocked a Trump administration funding request.
- Lawmakers have clashed with Trump over defense matters, criticizing troop withdrawals and authorizing spending against his preferences.
- GOP legislators' willingness to resist Trump may be influenced by his plunging poll numbers and the prospect of midterm election losses.
- While Trump's power in primaries is strong, his executive power is dependent on persuading lawmakers, which is becoming more challenging.