Democratic leaders are gearing up for the new Congress, with a focus on affordability and accountability following their victories in both the House of Representatives and the Senate on November 3. New York Representative Hakeem Jeffries is expected to become the speaker of the House when Congress reconvenes on January 3.
In a letter to fellow Democrats, Jeffries emphasized affordability as a key priority for 2027. “In the new Congress, we will aggressively fight for an affordable America,” he stated, adding that many taxpayers are struggling with rising living costs. His plan includes finding bipartisan solutions to lower expenses related to housing, healthcare, groceries, fuel, and caregiving.
Jeffries also highlighted the need to address economic challenges stemming from what he termed “damage done by MAGA extremists.” He outlined initial actions for House Democrats to undertake within the first 100 days, such as reversing Medicaid cuts, restoring SNAP funding, extending tax credits for the Affordable Care Act, eliminating Trump-era tariffs, and ending military actions in Iran.
Recent exit polls noted that a significant majority—63%—of voters attributed rising prices to Donald Trump’s policies. Additionally, 66% believe these policies have negatively impacted the U.S. economy, while 89% identified the cost of living as a decisive factor in their voting decisions.
Accountability will also be a priority for House Democrats. Jeffries indicated a commitment to curbing “corrupt price gouging” and pushing for a ban on stock trading by Members of Congress.
Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer echoed these sentiments during a press conference on November 4, citing cost reduction and corruption as top goals. He affirmed that the Senate would work to lower costs, whether or not they had the president’s support. “Whenever Trump defies the will of the American people or the law, we will launch investigations, take him to court,” he warned.
This Congress marks the first time Trump will face a Democratic majority in both the House and Senate. Previously, Democrats controlled the House in 2019 and 2020, but Republicans held the Senate majority, hindering significant legislative progress on many issues.
In response to the shifting political landscape, Trump remarked to Fox News on November 1 that he would likely use his veto power against Democratic initiatives but expressed the potential for future deals, referencing the collaborative nature often required in divided governments.
