Incoming GOP Senate majority leader unveils legislative agenda for Trump administration’s 1st 30 days
Incoming Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., is gearing up for an ambitious legislative agenda in 2025, aiming to pass a substantial bill within the first month of the new administration. Thune outlined his priorities during a recent Republican meeting, where he announced plans to swiftly advance a budget reconciliation bill focusing on border security, defense, and energy in the initial 30 days of the new Congress.
Budget reconciliation is a strategic legislative tactic that allows bills on critical issues like taxes, the debt limit, and federal spending to bypass the Senate’s typical 60-vote threshold for passage, instead requiring only a simple majority of 51 votes. Thune emphasized that his next area of focus would be legislation centering on taxes and other key priorities of President-elect Donald Trump’s administration.
On the House side, lawmakers have also signaled their intent to pass a reconciliation bill with a focus on border security and energy. Rep. Jodey Arrington, R-Texas, the House Budget Committee Chair, expressed a commitment to incorporating pro-growth strategies like regulatory reform and immigration reform into the bill. However, not all congressional Republicans are on board with the reconciliation plans. Rep. Jason Smith, R-Mo., the House Ways and Means Committee Chair, criticized the proposal, labeling it as “reckless” and warning that it could lead to increased taxes for all Americans.
During the meeting, Thune also revealed plans to streamline workflow in the Senate by no longer holding votes indefinitely, aiming to shorten voting time and prepare lawmakers for longer work weeks during the initial months of the 119th Congress. Additionally, President-elect Donald Trump reportedly joined the meeting via phone to discuss legislative priorities with the senators, highlighting the need for collaboration between the administration and the Senate to advance their shared agenda.
Overall, Thune’s legislative road map for 2025 sets a bold tone for the new Congress, with a focus on key issues like border security, defense, energy, and taxes. As the new Senate Majority Leader, Thune is poised to lead the charge in advancing these priorities and working closely with the administration to achieve their shared goals for the country.
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