Some cooperation is possible in next US Congress

Significance

At best, Democrats can tie the Senate 50-50, controlling it after January 20 with the Democratic US vice-president’s vote. Otherwise, Republicans will have a small majority to frustrate much of President-elect Joe Biden’s legislative agenda; but a blanket refusal to cooperate with Biden could threaten chances in the midterm elections.

Impacts

• A divided Senate would see Biden use executive orders and ‘whole-government’ rulemaking more often.
• Post-Trump, Senate Republicans will be more fiscally conservative, thwarting Biden spending plans.
• Some Trump political appointees may break with precedent and refuse to resign when Biden begins.
• Senate blocking of progressive House-passed legislation risks worsening the divide between moderate and progressive Democrats.