Former New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu recently shared insights on the political opportunities ahead for President-elect Donald Trump.
As Trump gears up for his administration, Sununu highlighted strategies for early triumphs in the chaotic political landscape, the Washington Examiner reported.
In a televised discussion on Fox News's "One Nation with Brian Kilmeade," Sununu argued that the disorganization within the Democratic Party following the 2024 election provides a significant edge for Trump.
The lack of clear Democratic leadership and direction can be an opportune moment for the incoming administration to push through initial policies effectively.
Chris Sununu, a centrist Republican known for his candid assessments, noted that Democratic lawmakers must seek commonality with the Republican majority. Collaborating on Trump’s agenda could lead to substantial early wins in Congress. Sununu indicated that this cooperation could be decisive in the first months of Trump’s term, advocating for a strategic strike while the political iron is hot.
Sununu was skeptical about the commitment of the entire Republican-controlled Congress, despite expecting positive reactions from Speaker Johnson and Senator Thune.
The challenge lies in rallying a Congress divided by slim margins to act swiftly on legislative opportunities. Here, Sununu's advice shifts to securing smaller legislative wins rather than committing to a sweeping, comprehensive bill that might stall in Congress.
Chris Sununu discussed Trump’s ability to forge ahead on international fronts as well, particularly focusing on the conflicts affecting Europe and the Middle East. He argued that Trump has the capacity to navigate complex global issues potentially without needing extensive congressional intervention. This includes brokering peace in Israel and seeking resolutions in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict.
Despite the optimistic view on early successes, Sununu also pointed out possible hurdles within Trump's party, as demonstrated by the contentious nomination and subsequent withdrawal of Matt Gaetz for attorney general, followed by Pam Bondi’s nomination. Tensions like these underline the internal pressures and disagreements that could influence Trump's maneuverability.
Furthermore, California Governor Gavin Newsom has extended an invitation to Trump to visit California and address the state's burgeoning wildfire crisis before the inauguration. This move indicates a potential area for bipartisan cooperation amidst national challenges.
According to Chris Sununu, Trump’s window to capitalize on his post-election momentum is narrow, and he emphasized the urgency of this period.
It’s not going to be easy, but there’s a time limit. I know we’d like to do it forever, but Trump has to take advantage, I think, of the next two to six months. That’s when the biggest and strongest wave of political momentum will exist, and he’ll take advantage. Will Congress respond? I know Speaker Johnson will, I think Thune will, but will the membership in that very narrow margin that they have right now understand that you get it done now or you get nothing done. And if they can do that, if they can coalesce around it, the sky’s the limit.
The conversation with Sununu sheds light on the potential pathways and pitfalls awaiting the incoming administration. Utilizing the disarray within the Democratic ranks, Trump could potentially implement significant policy changes early in his term.
The recommendations from Sununu reflect a blend of tactical legislative pushes and strategic international negotiations, aiming to capitalize on a critical period of political momentum. Trump's success, however, hinges not only on his leadership but also on the ability of both parties in Congress to navigate the narrow margins effectively.
