Trump, don’t make the Democrats’ obstruction easier

President Donald Trump faces a critical deadline as the current government spending agreement is set to expire on December 11. With only four weeks remaining before Congress is scheduled to adjourn for the year, the White House must decide on its priorities before the lame duck session concludes. While Republicans have the option to pass a short-term continuing resolution to keep the government open into 2027, critics warn this would leave Trump in a "terrible bargaining position." This is because newly elected Democratic majorities in both chambers would gain significant leverage to push through high-spending priorities. These potential priorities include adding trillions of dollars in spending for Affordable Care Act subsidies and Medicaid, which could increase inflation. Other potential policy shifts under Democratic control include defunding Immigration and Customs Enforcement to reopen borders and potentially handing the Strait of Hormuz back to Iran. To avoid starting the new year in a weakened position, the Washington Examiner suggests Trump must coordinate directly with Majority Leader John Thune to set clear objectives.