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Partisans on both sides of the aisle have plenty to be happy (and upset) about after voters took to the polls for the first time since Donald Trump's inauguration to render their judgement on his first two years. On one hand, Democrats had a phenomenal night in House races, comfortably retaking the lower chamber after eight years in the minority. On the other, Republicans not only kept, but expanded their majority in the Senate. After all the dust settles, one party rule in Washington will soon be over.
What does this all mean for Trump's legislative agenda?
In short - everything. Republicans will no longer be able to write and pass bills without Democratic support. Democrats in the House will also chair every House committee and with that comes the ability to subpoena anyone they wish. Be prepared for high stakes battles over Trump's tax returns, business dealings, and how he's running his Administration.
The rest of Trump's term will likely be marked by legislative battles and little, if any, actual legislating outside the bare minimum required by law.
What does this all mean for Trump's judicial agenda?
In short - everything. Unlike legislation, judicial nominees only need a majority vote in the Senate to be confirmed to a lifetime seat on the bench. Republicans not only kept, but expanded their majority in the Senate, so expect a ceaseless drive to confirm as many Republican federal judges as possible during the 116 Congress.
Washington is going to look very different come January, 2019. How Donald Trump responds to that facts will largely determine what his next two years will be like.