US President-elect Donald Trump’s failure to secure a budget deal with lawmakers just before his inauguration signals a potentially contentious four-year term ahead. Despite his party’s backing, Trump was unable to raise the debt limit, showcasing that some members are willing to defy him.
Trump’s involvement in the budget debate exposed his ability to disrupt deals rather than making them. His agenda includes extending tax cuts, slashing government size, increasing tariffs on imports, and cracking down on immigrants – efforts requiring congressional buy-in.
A significant portion of Trump’s supporters desired complete overhaul (37%) or substantial change (56%), but lawmakers face challenges in fulfilling these goals due to thin Republican majorities in both the House and Senate. Weary lawmakers have expressed a need for unity, with Sen. Kevin Cramer stating that the budget battle was a “valuable lesson” on how to work together.
The drama was triggered by Elon Musk, who initially opposed the proposed legislation before Trump intervened. Despite his efforts, 38 Republicans voted against the final bill, leaving it without the debt ceiling increase Trump demanded.
Trump’s tactics were seen as a test of his influence, with some viewing it as an opportunity for him to shape policy while others fear voter backlash from drastic cuts. As the spending debates next year are expected to further challenge Trump’s influence in the House, lawmakers will need to navigate these issues while maintaining public support.
Despite the uncertainty, one thing is clear: President-elect Donald Trump is poised to face a contentious four-year term marked by budget battles and policy disputes with his own party and opponents alike.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/wireStory/trumps-decision-wade-spending-fight-tells-us-4-117021932