The Republican Party is drawing closer to securing full control of Congress, having already clinched a majority in the Senate and needing just three more seats to gain control of the House of Representatives.
To command a House majority, a party needs 218 seats. According to recent figures, president-elect Donald Trump’s party holds 214, with the Democrats trailing at 205.
Since his presidential victory last week, attention has been focused on Trump as he begins appointing key members to his administration.
So far, Trump has tapped New York Congresswoman Elise Stefanik as the new U.S. ambassador to the United Nations and appointed Tom Homan, whom he has designated as the new “border tsar.”
In the Senate, Republicans are anticipated to hold at least 52 out of 100 seats, having won seats previously held by Democrats in states like West Virginia, Ohio, and Montana.
With control of the House, a party can initiate spending bills and launch impeachment procedures against officials, and leading both chambers would allow much of Trump’s legislative agenda to advance with greater ease.
Trump’s campaign promises included tackling inflation, lowering taxes, and deporting immigrants living in the U.S. without legal status.
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As for his cabinet picks, speculation is mounting about whom Trump might choose for top roles.
Tom Homan, former acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), was rumored to be a leading candidate for Homeland Security secretary. Trump has since confirmed on his Truth Social platform that Homan will oversee national border security as “The Border Czar,” covering the southern and northern borders, as well as maritime and aviation security.
Trump further added that Homan will handle the deportation of individuals without legal status. “Congratulations to Tom,” he said, expressing confidence in Homan’s ability to fulfill this role effectively.
Trump also confirmed to the New York Post his selection of Elise Stefanik as U.N. ambassador, which Stefanik accepted with pride, saying she was “deeply honored” by the nomination and eager to gain Senate support for her appointment.
Additionally, Susie Wiles has been named chief of staff to the president. Trump described her as “the ice maiden,” referring to her calm demeanor, and noted her preference for working behind the scenes.
Other potential cabinet members include Elon Musk, who was instrumental in Trump’s campaign efforts, and Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who previously ran his own presidential campaign before endorsing Trump.
Over the weekend, Trump announced that Nikki Haley and Mike Pompeo, both of whom served in his first administration, would not be returning to the White House in January. Republican Party
