This time around, Donald Trump has a strong ally in the White House who can help him negotiate with Congress. Vice President-elect J.D. Vance is quickly positioning himself as a central figure on Capitol Hill, taking on the role of President-elect Donald Trump’s primary liaison to Congress as Republicans brace for a challenging legislative term.
This week, Vance made repeated visits to House Speaker Mike Johnson’s office, navigating tense negotiations over a spending package disrupted by Trump’s objections. He also held meetings in the Senate, advocating for Trump’s Cabinet nominees and working to ease resistance from hesitant lawmakers.
The Washington Examiner writes that the next vice president is seen as a key player for the incoming administration.
Yet behind the scenes, Vance is viewed by Republicans as a constructive force who can help Washington weather the tumult of the next four years.
In a series of interviews, senators described him as a clear communicator who wants to reach a compromise that satisfies the various factions of the unruly House, not to mention the demands of a president who seems to relish confrontation.
“His presence here, I think, is helpful as he’s talking to folks in the House, talking to folks in the Senate, and trying to figure out how you find a path out of the woods,” said Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), one of the Senate’s centrists.
Vance’s MO is consistent with his two years in the Senate. Trump chose him for vice president because of his outspoken loyalty, but he’s also regarded as a serious legislator, coming close to passing a rail safety bill with Democrats this past year.
Republicans also appreciate Vance’s composed demeanor. Sen. John Kennedy (R-LA) praised him as a “deep thinker” and a stabilizing presence in moments of political turbulence, the newspaper noted.
Still, Vance’s influence has its limitations. His and Trump’s recent failure to secure changes to the federal debt limit revealed the difficulties of managing a divided Congress.
Despite these obstacles, Vance’s strong relationships with Republican lawmakers provide him with a significant edge. Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) highlighted the advantage of his familiarity with Capitol Hill’s inner workings. “He knows us, and that makes him an effective bridge between the White House and Congress,” she said.
