From the Politics Desk

Anti-Incumbent Wave Extends Globally

As the newly elected Republican Congress settles in, the world has seen a surge in anti-incumbent sentiment. Voters worldwide have rejected incumbents and traditional parties due to economic woes, political divisions, and dissatisfaction with the status quo.

Examples include the defeat of the Conservative Party in the UK, the loss of power by Botswana's Democratic Party, and the opposition party gaining a majority in South Korea's National Assembly.

Harris's Role in Trump's Election Certification

"Democracy prevails," declared Vice President Kamala Harris as she presided over the certification of Donald Trump's election win.

Harris steered the Congress's endorsement of the Electoral College vote, affirming Trump's return to the White House despite her own loss in the election.

In contrast to the violence of previous 6th of January events, this year's certification proceeded calmly and within 30 minutes.

Challenges to Trump's Agenda in Congress

House Speaker Mike Johnson has announced an ambitious plan to pass Trump's agenda in a single bill. However, key senators, including Majority Leader John Thune, prefer breaking the bill into two parts.

Johnson and Trump prefer a single package, but the Senate has expressed a different perspective. The outcome of this debate will test the limits of the Republican majority.

Trump's Discussion with House Republicans at Mar-a-Lago

Trump has invited groups of House Republicans to Mar-a-Lago to discuss the party's legislative agenda, including members of the Freedom Caucus and committee chairs.

The meeting aims to shape the party's strategy and identify ways to deliver on Trump's campaign promises.

That's all From the Politics Desk for now. Today's newsletter was compiled by Adam Wollner, Scott Bland, and Bridget Bowman.

Please share this newsletter with anyone interested. They can sign up here.