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Here’s what GOP can and should do for their last two months in power
The article argues that Republicans should use their final eight weeks controlling Congress to pass measures that matter to voters, especially through budget reconciliation, and to confirm judges. Their window is closing as Democrats take control in January, and the author says Republicans should avoid spending political capital on projects such as funding Donald Trump’s ballroom.
Republicans face narrow margins and internal divisions: the Senate majority will fall to 52, while the House majority is only four seats. The Senate filibuster limits most legislation, and only 11 nominees have been submitted for 28 vacant district judgeships; no federal appeals court seats are vacant. A government shutdown is possible in December, and the article also cites debt-ceiling and defence funding as priorities, while noting that extending operations in Iran could divide Republicans.
In short
- Republicans have eight weeks before losing congressional control.
- Narrow majorities and party divisions limit what they can pass.
- The author urges focus on reconciliation, judges and voters’ priorities.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Republicans have a short window to act on priorities voters care about before losing control of Congress, so they should use reconciliation where possible and confirm qualified judges while they still can. Addressing government funding, the debt ceiling and defence needs could provide practical value, while avoiding divisive or symbolic projects would conserve time and political capital.
The case against
With narrow majorities and internal divisions, rushing legislation or judicial confirmations could produce poor policy, deepen party rifts or weaken scrutiny. Republicans could instead focus on essential government funding and careful review of nominees, leaving contentious questions such as Iran operations or other major measures for fuller debate with the incoming Congress.