President Donald Trump spent months warning Senate Republicans that their refusal to confront the filibuster would eventually hand Democrats an enormous political advantage. Now, following a devastating election setback for Republicans, those warnings are taking on renewed significance.
At the center of the controversy is Senate Majority Leader John Thune, whose handling of Trump’s legislative priorities has drawn criticism from conservatives who believe Republicans squandered an opportunity to deliver on the promises that helped return Trump to the White House.
Trump has repeatedly demanded action. He wanted legislation moving, nominees confirmed, and Republican lawmakers willing to use their majority to advance the administration’s agenda. Instead, he watched one legislative battle after another become bogged down in the Senate.
His frustration was unmistakable during remarks at the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida, where he delivered a blunt assessment of the legislative process.
