Congress Returns to a New Political Reality

In a Lame Duck session marked by shifting political tides, Verizon President Leslie Shedd urges Congress to prioritize economic relief and cross-aisle collaboration while analysts John McCarthy and Shedd debate strategies for the 2028 cycle. With Democrats capitalizing on an unexpectedly large majority, McCarthy advocates leveraging their numbers to force presidential vetoes and advance moderate leadership, whereas Shedd warns against overreach that could alienate voters still frustrated by affordability issues. Meanwhile, the Republican minority faces a leadership contest between Steve Scalise and Jim Jordan, with experts advising both parties to pivot away from culture wars and toward economic governance to secure future electoral success.