With the Republican Party holding a majority in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, President-elect Donald Trump faces a mix of opportunity and challenge in implementing his Make America Great Again (MAGA) agenda. While the GOP’s control is a significant advantage, the tight numbers, especially in the House, create potential roadblocks for Trump.
The House’s narrow 220-215 Republican majority means any defections could easily derail bills. In fact, during the initial vote for House Speaker, some Republicans defied Trump’s support for Mike Johnson, highlighting the divided nature of the party.
In the Senate, where Republicans hold a 53-45 majority, Trump faces another hurdle: the filibuster. This rule requires 60 votes to bring a bill to the floor for a vote, making it difficult for Trump to pass legislation without Democratic support.
As a result, any significant legislation will likely need to attract bipartisan cooperation, a tough task for a president known for his combative style.
While Trump may push through executive orders to bypass Congress, these orders are limited, particularly when new funding or policies are needed. Moreover, the ticking clock of the 2026 midterm elections looms large, and with close margins, Trump may have only two years to secure a lasting legislative legacy.
