Republicans race against 55-day clock after midterm defeat

Republicans have nearly two months to advance President Trump's policy priorities before ceding Congress to Democrats following the midterm election defeat. The party lost control of both the Senate and the House, leaving only 55 days of majority power before the new Congress is sworn in on January 3, 2027. During this period, Republicans aim to pass priority legislation, confirm judges and officials, and potentially impeach Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. They will also elect new party leadership, with Steve Scalise and Jim Jordan competing for House minority leader, while addressing the December 11 government funding deadline. The Senate will rush to confirm Trump's judicial nominees, though a Supreme Court vacancy is unlikely. Republicans may use budget reconciliation to pass tax and military spending bills, but their slim majorities could complicate these efforts within the limited timeframe.