Congress Returns with GOP Priorities for Trump

As Congress reconvenes, it faces a critical agenda influenced by President-elect Donald Trump's hard-right priorities, including mass deportations and deregulation. House Speaker Mike Johnson emphasizes a unified Republican government ready to enact Trump's policies, despite the unclear status of House control. Meanwhile, Senate Republicans are preparing for leadership elections, with candidates expressing support for expedited confirmations of Trump's Cabinet nominees. Democrats are in a state of reflection after election losses, seeking to understand their shortcomings and strategize for the future. The lame-duck session presents an opportunity for bipartisan efforts on issues like disaster aid and defense policy, but contentious topics such as government spending may be postponed until the new Republican majority takes full effect. Lawmakers are determined to ensure Trump has a functional Cabinet in place by his inauguration on January 20.