Trump

Republicans are reeling from the midterm elections and facing a crisis. Ron DeSantis, the Florida governor, calls it an “extinction-level event” for the party. Ted Cruz, the Texas senator, compares it to a “Watergate-level repudiation.” The party is divided on how to move forward. Some want to return to fiscal conservatism. Others suggest embracing President Donald Trump’s politics. Trump's role in shaping the party's future is a key question. GOP infighting is expected to intensify, with leadership battles and policy decisions looming. The party must also address its appeal to younger voters and minorities to regain lost ground.

President Donald Trump and his Department of Justice are taking a combative stance toward Democrats after their victories in the midterm elections. The Republican administration is signaling that there's intense conflict to come as lawmakers prepare aggressive investigations into the executive branch next year. Trump set the tone by claiming on social media that investigative requests already made by Democrats are “extortion at the highest level, and they should be held accountable.” Attorney General Todd Blanche says criminal investigations of Democrats are possible. A leading House Democrat says members of his party aren't going to be intimidated.