Senate puts Trump team in place, sets up agenda fight after 100-day sprint
The Senate, according to its own standards, is wrapping up a highly productive period as President Donald Trump approaches his first 100 days in office. The Republican-led Senate, back from a recent recess, has successfully confirmed all of Trump’s key nominees, including controversial figures like Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard.
During the first 14 weeks of the year, the Senate was in session for 13 weeks straight, marking its longest consecutive session in 15 years. In that time, a total of 53 of Trump’s nominees were confirmed, outpacing the confirmation rate of President Joe Biden in 2021 and exceeding the pace set in 2017.
Despite facing obstacles from Democrats, many of Trump’s nominees received bipartisan support, showcasing the Senate’s ability to work together across party lines. Additionally, the GOP-led Senate has put in place two frameworks for what Trump has referred to as his “big, beautiful bill.”
However, the focus on confirming nominees has meant that only five bills have been passed into law so far. This is partly due to Trump’s use of executive orders and the Senate’s dedication to ensuring his team is in place.
Among the laws that have been passed, two stand out: one aimed at preventing a government shutdown and the Laken Riley Act, which addresses a specific issue of importance.
As the Senate concludes this productive period, it is clear that they have been able to achieve significant milestones despite the challenges they have faced. The ability to work together and prioritize key issues has been key to their success in this timeframe.
