Gillibrand Sets Terms for New Democratic Control of Congress
The New York senator outlines a legislative agenda focused on ending the Iran conflict and restoring Medicaid, while stopping short of committing to a third impeachment.
By Chioma Kuznetsov ·
President Donald Trump admitted on Wednesday that the ongoing war in Iran helped drive Republican losses in the recent congressional elections.
Democrats have reclaimed control of the House and Senate, leaving the party with a mandate to test the limits of its power against a sitting president. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand of New York outlined that strategy on Morning Edition, stating the new majority must prioritize three areas: lowering costs, restoring health care access, and ending the conflict in Iran.
Gillibrand pointed to the war as a primary driver of the election results, arguing that Trump broke his campaign promise to avoid prolonged military engagements. "We have to end this war in Iran," she said. Iranian officials have warned against renewed U.S. attacks, but the conflict continues as of this week. The senator did not specify a mechanism for ending the fighting, leaving the legislative path unclear.
On the domestic front, Gillibrand challenged the president to reject a bipartisan bill designed to restore Medicaid coverage. "I dare him to veto that," she told NPR's A Martínez. She also proposed a ban on stock trading for members of Congress and senior administration officials as a way to manage the administration.
The new Democratic leadership also holds increased investigative power. While a third impeachment of Trump is now a possibility, Gillibrand did not commit to pursuing that route immediately. "We can do both," she said, indicating a preference for legislative action alongside oversight.
The interview also touched on Democratic gains in traditionally Republican states, the construction of Trump's White House ballroom, and cuts to food assistance and medical research programs.
