Today’s edition of From the Politics Desk explores the challenges Democrats face in regaining control of the Senate, with predictions that the GOP majority could last for several cycles. Outgoing National Republican Senatorial Committee Chair Steve Daines is optimistic about the party’s chances, citing recent wins in key states. Looking ahead to 2026 and 2028, Democrats may struggle to make significant gains as they face tough battles in states won by Trump. The key issue for Democrats is expanding their appeal to white voters without a college degree, who have significant influence in Senate races.
In another story, Trump’s transition team is now using the much-maligned Project 2025 to fill positions in the administration, despite previously disavowing it during the campaign. The database created by Project 2025 is being used to recommend potential hires for the upcoming administration, signaling a shift in strategy. The transition team’s openness to using Project 2025’s database reflects a need to quickly fill over 4,000 political appointee positions. The team has already tapped contributors to the project for key roles, indicating a willingness to work with conservative allies.
Other top stories include former Rep. Matt Gaetz’s decision not to rejoin Congress, Trump’s nomination of Pam Bondi as attorney general, and Senate Republicans’ responses to sexual assault allegations against Pete Hegseth. The judge presiding over Trump’s hush money trial has postponed sentencing, and transgender Americans are preparing for possible restrictions under Trump’s second administration. Environmental groups are gearing up to push back against expected policy changes, and Democrats are strategizing to regain ground in Nevada after a presidential defeat.
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