Republicans in Congress are strategizing a two-step approach to advance President-elect Donald Trump’s agenda when they assume control of both chambers next year. Incoming Senate Majority Leader John Thune, whose party will hold a 53-47 Senate majority, outlined the plan during a closed-door meeting that included a call from Trump. The approach involves using the budget reconciliation process to bypass the Senate’s 60-vote filibuster rule.
The first bill would prioritize border security, energy deregulation, and defense spending. A second bill would extend tax cuts from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, set to expire next year. Thune described the plan as offering “options” for members to consider.
House Speaker Mike Johnson, who attended the Senate meeting, confirmed plans to use reconciliation in two phases. He noted ongoing discussions about the specific provisions for each package, aiming to build consensus. A continuing resolution to fund federal agencies through March is also expected before current funding expires on Dec. 20.
To proceed, Congress must first agree on a budget resolution to enable reconciliation. Lawmakers hope to finalize the first reconciliation bill by March 31. Senator Mike Rounds emphasized the urgency, citing a limited 18-month window to implement their agenda.
Meanwhile, fiscal concerns have been raised by Senator Rand Paul, highlighting potential costs. Democrats previously used reconciliation extensively during President Biden’s first two years in office.
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