How Senate Democrats can stop Trump from stealing the midterms
Republicans could lean on congressional procedure to defy the will of voters. But if they try that, the Senate has a clear way to fight back
TL;DR
- Republicans might attempt to corrupt congressional elections by challenging close results and having the House decide who is seated.
- A potential scheme involves a loyal clerk preparing a fraudulent list of representatives-elect or state officials creating confusion and chaos around election results.
- The House is a continuing body where all members' terms end on January 3rd, but the Senate is a continuing body with members retaining their authority.
- Senate Democrats are assured an initial 34-31 advantage in the Senate when it convenes on January 3rd, regardless of the November election outcome.
- If Republicans attempt to steal the House, Senate Democrats can retaliate by refusing to seat a few Republicans with close elections, mirroring the House's strategy.
- The Senate Vice-President customarily handles seating new senators, but a seated Democrat could challenge a Republican senator-elect, and a Democratic majority would rule on any appeal.