Key Takeaways:
– Trump’s return to power could erode the checks and balances system.
– The Congress and Supreme Court, both moulded during his previous term, favor his rule.
– Trump’s sprawling agenda, Project 2025, faces mixed views but is poised to redefine several US institutions.
– The 2026 midterm elections might bring the reckoning for Trump’s rule and policies.
Trump: Overcoming Checks and Balances
The return of Donald Trump to the presidential office is seen as a potential threat to the checks and balances system established by the founders. Despite debatable acts during his prior term of service, Congress and the Supreme Court, both reshaped in his image during his tenure, seem to side with the former President.
Macro Influence on Institutions
The Supreme Court, with a far-right supermajority created in part by Trump’s first-term appointees, holds immense power in shaping legal precedents and policy. In a previous ruling, the court found that presidents are effectively immune from criminal prosecution for official acts. This decision delayed any federal trial on Trump’s alleged first-term crimes, such as misconduct against Joe Biden’s election and mishandling of government secrets. With his return, these cases are likely to fizzle out.
Congress and Trump: A Strong Connection
Trump’s sway is not limited to the Supreme Court; it extends to Congress as well. The likelihood of both the Senate and House being under Republican control, at least until the 2026 midterm elections, bolsters Trump’s position further. This unswerving affiliation with Trump transcends political camaraderie, with Congress members showcasing deference in favor of the former president.
Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana, dubbed MAGA Mike, stands as the epitome of this devotion to Trump, standing steadfastly by his side time and again. Trump’s return promises a congressional leader who will back his agenda, taking Trump’s influence to unprecedented heights.
An Audacious Agenda and Possible Consequences
Trump’s future plans and strategies are under scrutiny, considering his history of seeking tax cuts and pursuing controversial agendas. His sprawling plan called Project 2025, endorsed publicly despite its unpopularity, could install far-right policies and reforms. Despite opponents’ objections, the potential enactment of Project 2025 spells significant changes to U.S. institutions, including a return to the 19th-century spoils system, reformation of the Justice Department, and abandonment of federal roles in education and clean energy.
Anticipation brews around Republican domination, where conformity to Trump’s agenda is expected. For instance, both Sen. John Thune of South Dakota and Sen. John Cornyn of Texas are potential successors to outgoing Senate leader Mitch McConnell. This Senate transition could facilitate Trump nominees and agenda with minimal resistance.
A Future Glimpse: The Silver Lining
Despite these significant changes, not all hope is lost. With undeniable control and a mandate to impose their policies, Trump’s Republican Party is likely to own the result of their rule, whether successful or not. Analysts suggest that the domination may overreach, leading to a backlash from voters. Given the outcome of previous midterm elections, it counts as no surprise that the tide could turn away from the current ruling party in 2026. With such speculation and anticipation surrounding Trump’s return, only time will determine the ultimate number of checks and balances that remain.