Trumper to Senate Republican Meeting

On September 17, Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell convened a private lunch with Senate Republicans, inviting a never-Trumper to discuss the need for prioritizing defense spending over election integrity. This meeting was significant as it came in the context of a House Republican plan to attach a continuing resolution to a bill aimed at eliminating non-citizen voting, a proposal favored by Donald Trump. McConnell's stance appeared to undermine this House initiative, indicating a rift within the party regarding key priorities. During the lunch, members of the Commission on National Defense Strategy presented a report advocating for increased taxpayer funding for the Pentagon, suggesting that raising taxes might be necessary to support this initiative. This aligns with McConnell's long-standing focus on defense spending, even as the Pentagon faces scrutiny over its priorities and recruitment challenges. The meeting also underscored the internal conflicts within the Republican Party, particularly as McConnell has faced challenges to his leadership from members who support Trump's America First agenda. Despite his efforts to work with Democrats on issues like Ukraine aid, McConnell's leadership is increasingly questioned by party members who are willing to oppose him. As McConnell approaches the end of his tenure as Republican Leader, he is focused on solidifying his legacy and ensuring that his preferred candidates succeed in upcoming leadership elections, which may further shape the direction of the party in the future.