The Hitchhiker’s Guide to what happens next on Capitol Hill

Congressional Republicans and Democrats are preparing for internal leadership elections after the midterms, with uncertainty over who will lead both parties in the House and Senate. The contests matter because incoming lawmakers are questioning established leaders and weighing how closely their parties should follow President Trump or progressive priorities.

Several newly elected Democrats have signalled they may oppose Chuck Schumer for Senate leader, with some backing other candidates, though Schumer says he expects to be re-elected and needs about 29 Democratic votes. At least five Democratic Socialists of America members say they will withhold support for Hakeem Jeffries unless he commits to their agenda; he needs 218 House votes if all 435 members vote. On the Republican side, Steve Scalise and Jim Jordan are competing for the top House Republican post, while Tom Emmer faces August Pfluger in the whip contest; Mike Johnson will not seek minority leader.