GOP lawmakers deliver for Trump, but not themselves as retirements signal

Congress reconvened after the Thanksgiving recess to face a dramatically altered political landscape compared to just a few weeks ago, when lawmakers approved the temporary funding measure set to last until January 21. Since the Republican-led reopening of the government without meaningful concessions to Democrats, the majority party has endured a string of challenging news cycles. Despite defending the Affordable Care Act at significant political cost to vulnerable members, the House and Senate now enter a hectic and tense December.

The recent political turbulence is largely driven by unrelated issues, most of which cannot be blamed on Congress. Headlines have been dominated by controversies surrounding the Trump administration: revelations linked to Jeffrey Epstein, contentious presidential pardons, the killing of a 20-year-old National Guard member near the White House, declining consumer confidence, the faltering gerrymandering strategy, Russian oligarch gains in Ukraine negotiations, and reports of Pentagon-ordered killings of suspected drug traffickers following failed airstrikes. These stories have escalated into complex legal and ethical dilemmas, with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth struggling to navigate them.

Technically, Congress bears little direct responsibility for these crises. Critics might argue that the legislative branch has ceded power for political convenience, but under Washingtons long-standing norms, lawmakers mainly challenge presidents from the opposing party. In that context, the slim Republican majorities in both chambers have accomplished what, a year ago, would have seemed impressive. Even former Speaker Nancy Pelosi would likely acknowledge the unity and discipline required to pass a comprehensive budget package, which included politically sensitive Medicaid cuts, and to resist Democratic counterattacks during the shutdown.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, who took office amid party turbulence, has successfully maintained his position despite skepticism about his ability to lead. Similarly, Senate Majority Leader John Thune navigated his caucus through a contentious reconciliation package and the record-long shutdown, demonstrating leadership few predicted. Observers who doubted their capabilities now owe them recognition.

However, the congressional GOPs discipline has not translated into electoral or public approval gains. President Trumps approval among Republicans has dipped slightly from its February peak, while congressional Republicans approval ratings have plummetedfrom 53 percent in March to just 23 percenthighlighting growing voter frustration. The partys legislative loyalty to Trump has done little to protect its members from public dissatisfaction.

Congressional Republicans have largely followed Trumps directives, refraining from action on oversight, tariffs, Russia sanctions, war powers, Epstein investigations, and immigration. Yet, despite this compliance, they face declining support even from their own base. With only seven weeks to prevent another government shutdown, Republicans return to work in 2025 with limited accomplishments to show, diminished approval from their constituents, and the looming threat of electoral setbacks.

Author: Sophia Brooks