Current Power Maneuvers in Trump's GOP
Republicans are swiftly taking steps to promote their interests and agendas as Trump's presidential transition begins.
TroibNews 
Navigating power dynamics is a constant in politics, but within the realm of Trump world, it operates just beneath the surface. Even prior to the election, several high-profile Republicans seemed to be positioning themselves for prospective roles in Donald Trump’s forthcoming administration.
“Ric Grenell raised some eyebrows when he appeared alongside Trump at the Zelenskyy meeting in September,” remarked Meridith McGraw, national correspondent for PMG, who has been reporting on Trump since 2019. She noted that the combative former Trump administration official is now being considered as a potential State Department chief, a scenario that could cause concern among some Republican senators.
McGraw shared insights about the likely composition of Trump’s next Cabinet during a Playbook Deep Dive podcast discussion with Mike DeBonis, editor of Playbook. DeBonis previously covered House Republicans during Trump’s initial presidency as they attempted to transform his unconventional campaign platform into tangible policy.
The GOP is poised to reclaim a governing trifecta, holding the House, Senate, and White House. Although this new cycle will see Republicans with a narrower majority in the House, their ideological alignment with their leader appears stronger, which could facilitate smoother governance.
“The Paul Ryan party is gone,” stated DeBonis. “It’s Donald Trump’s party.”
This conversation has undergone edits for length and clarity, courtesy of Deep Dive Producer Kara Tabor and Senior Producer Alex Keeney. For more details, you can listen to the full Playbook Deep Dive podcast.
How do you anticipate daily operations in Washington will change with Trump’s return?
Mike DeBonis: We haven't experienced a trifecta setup for two years; divided government has been the norm. Now, with unified control reinstated, legislative movement can occur without extensive negotiations across party lines. Although we’ve seen discussions on the debt limit and spending, larger issues have been sidelined. We're now shifting back to taking on major challenges.
Let’s delve into some key players in D.C. One notable figure is Susie Wiles, whom Trump has named as chief of staff. What are her attributes?
Meridith McGraw: She commands considerable respect from Trump, his family, his inner circle, and congressional allies. When she started in early 2021, Trump had become politically untouchable, yet Susie took on the challenge of revamping his operations and significantly aiding his comeback before he even declared his candidacy.
Mike DeBonis: I remember a standout moment from Trump’s victory speech when he referred to her as “the Ice Maiden.” It perfectly illustrated her role, particularly considering how uncomfortable she seems in the spotlight.
She seems to prefer being in the mix without being out front.
Mike DeBonis: I met her once at the Gridiron dinner, and it was clear that she values her privacy while still being influential. For anyone involved in Trump's chief of staff role, managing the egos present is crucial, given the tumultuous nature of the last administration.
She’s been able to communicate with Trump directly, sharing her perspective on contentious issues, such as when she voiced her concerns about Laura Loomer accompanying him on his plane. Though he may not always heed her advice, she has a way of getting through to him.
Mike DeBonis: Unlike some former aides, she seems adept at delivering unpleasant truths to him.
Meridith McGraw: She holds a level of respect that few others do.
Are there other individuals in Trump’s circle worth monitoring during this transitional period?
Meridith McGraw: Currently, we’re hearing various names linked to the transition, including former officials like John Ratcliffe, Robert Lighthizer, and Brian Hook, who are gathering names, resumes, and policy ideas relevant to the forthcoming Trump administration. It’s evident that anyone hoping to reclaim a role from the previous administration is stepping forward to contribute.
Regarding the Senate, with Mitch McConnell stepping down from leadership, what can we expect from the upcoming leadership election?
Mike DeBonis: This could arguably be the most significant leadership election in two decades. The person who wins will likely lead at a time rich with legislative opportunities. However, the candidates, particularly Thune and Cornyn, share many similarities.
Who are the front-runners?
Mike DeBonis: The primary candidates are John Cornyn, the former Republican whip, John Thune, the current Republican whip, and Rick Scott, the former NRSC chair who is positioning himself as a conservative challenger.
The vital aspect of this race is that the outcome depends heavily on the roughly 52 to 54 Republican senators who will cast their votes privately. Outside influences, including Trump’s endorsement, may not significantly sway the decision.
On Thursday, Thune commented on Trump, suggesting that an endorsement from him might not be advantageous. This reveals a nuanced relationship between Trump and Thune.
Now shifting to the House, Speaker Mike Johnson is expected to run for re-election. Does he need Trump’s backing to maintain his role?
Mike DeBonis: In Trump’s victory speech, he praised Mike Johnson’s performance. Assuming Republicans hold onto their majority, I don't foresee an intense battle for the speakership. Trump's support will likely solidify Johnson’s position.
However, some centrist Republicans are suggesting a potential challenge should the majority be slim.
I find it hard to believe that there will be significant contention over this.
Meridith McGraw: As we consider the transition and the Senate, names like Sen. Marco Rubio and Sen. Bill Hagerty frequently arise for potential roles in the new administration.
It seems likely we’ll see notable movements in the Senate.
Mike DeBonis: I believe some senators will more likely be selected for cabinet positions than House members, particularly given the delicate state of the House majority.
For State Department speculation, Ric Grenell is mentioned alongside other contenders like Robert O'Brien and Marco Rubio.
Meridith McGraw: There’s considerable behind-the-scenes lobbying for these roles, which has been ongoing for some time. Grenell, in particular, attracted attention during a recent meeting with Trump, sparking discussions about his potential role.
To clarify why he’s controversial, could you elaborate?
Meridith McGraw: He has a reputation for being combative, especially in his prior role as ambassador to Germany. It's worth debating whether a diplomatic role suits someone with Grenell’s track record.
For Treasury, we see prominent names like Robert Lighthizer and Howard Lutnick enter the mix.
It’s challenging to discern who is genuinely seeking positions and who is merely floating their names.
Meridith McGraw: The current phase is crowded with individuals presenting themselves for roles, trying to catch Trump’s attention in any way possible. For the State Department, we hear names like Grenell and Rubio. As for Treasury, figures like Lighthizer and Lutnick are prominent, though Lutnick's dual role as transition co-chair may raise concerns regarding conflicts.
Some are vocal about their ambitions; for instance, John Paulson has candidly discussed his aspirations in interviews.
Mike DeBonis: It's fascinating to see this level of openness among Treasury contenders, reminiscent of the first Trump administration when political maneuvering often played out publicly rather than behind closed doors.
Meridith, you’ve reported extensively on the America First Policy Institute, which is emerging as a pivotal player. What are they up to?
Meridith McGraw: This institute, established by former Trump officials like Linda McMahon and Kellyanne Conway, aims to develop a platform for potential conservative policies. They position themselves as architects of a future Republican administration focused on Trump's “America First” ethos.
Is there a faction within Trump’s inner circle that appears to be gaining influence?
Meridith McGraw: With Trump's latest victory, the populist wing, represented by figures like JD Vance and Don Jr., seems to be gaining prominence. This could set the stage for a conflict between this faction and the more traditional Republican voices.
Mike DeBonis: Trump’s individual policy preferences may influence these divisions, particularly if the House majority remains slim.
Elon Musk’s role seems noteworthy — what’s your assessment of his impact?
Mike DeBonis: Trump devoted considerable time in his speech discussing Musk, showcasing Forbes’ significant presence in the political discourse without an official role in government. Musk's influence and media platform position him as a vital figure in Trump’s orbit.
Meridith McGraw: Recent observations indicate Musk and Trump spend substantial time together, reinforcing Musk’s proximity to Trump.
What plans do Republicans have for their first days in power under this trifecta?
Meridith McGraw: Key focuses include tariffs and border policies, set to top Trump’s agenda on day one.
Reflecting on past challenges, what lessons might Republicans learn from their initial trifecta in 2017?
Mike DeBonis: The struggle to repeal Obamacare remains a stark reminder for Republicans, especially given their significantly smaller House majority this time. Navigating the needs of marginal members will be critical in shaping their strategy on taxes, healthcare, and immigration.
The current House dynamic favors Trump and his vision, although individual members may have differing opinions on the execution of legislation.
What changes might we expect from Democrats in their response to a Republican resurgence?
Mike DeBonis: Unlike 2017, there’s a fundamentally different atmosphere following Trump’s popular success. This time, Democrats might adopt a more strategic approach to resistance, focusing on specific issues such as corruption rather than broadly characterizing the administration as illegitimate.
Where will Trump’s inner circle congregate now that his Pennsylvania Avenue hotel is closed?
Meridith McGraw: Some Trump associates still want to visit the hotel, reminiscing about familiar staff. Cap Grille and Joe's are popular spots, alongside venues like The War Room at the Willard, where Steve Bannon operates.
Mike DeBonis: There's an emerging opportunity for a conservative restaurateur to create a new hub for Trump supporters.
Listen to this episode of Playbook Deep Dive on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.As Trump’s team prepares for the reshaping of his administration, the political landscape promises to evolve rapidly. The interplay between old and new allies, as well as the ongoing presence of influential figures like Elon Musk, suggests that the dynamics within the GOP will be continuously in flux.
The recent election results not only reflect Trump's enduring popularity but also highlight the hardened divisions among Republicans and the lasting impact of populist sentiments within the party. With the potential for dramatic policy shifts taking place right from the start, the stakes in Congress are high as lawmakers adjust to their new roles.
Meridith McGraw pointed out that both tariffs and border security initiatives are set to take precedence early in Trump’s government. Addressing these issues could resonate well with his base, invigorating his support among core voters. The strategy could very well include pushback against previous policies while reinstating some of the signature initiatives from his prior administration.
Mike DeBonis emphasizes that the 2023 Republican majority will drastically differ from that of 2017. With a narrower margin, GOP leaders will need to be strategic about their legislative agenda, identifying which initiatives can realistically be passed without alienating moderates within their ranks. These lawmakers, aware of their vulnerable positions in historically competitive districts, could be instrumental in dictating the pace and nature of the party's legislative efforts.
Moreover, McGraw also highlighted the critical relationships that will need to be built and nurtured within Congress. The evolving relationships between Trump and key congressional players—some of whom may vie for influence or prominence in Trump’s new Cabinet—will determine not just policy outcomes but also the emotional and strategic landscape in the GOP.
In the wake of the election, the infrastructure within Republican circles is brimming with speculation, and potential aspirations are taking shape within Trump's orbit. As former officials align themselves to reclaim their previous roles or find new avenues within the government, the sense of urgency to solidify Trump’s political vision is palpable.
An ongoing area of concern for GOP leadership will be how they navigate interactions with Democrats. As opposition strategies evolve, the landscape of the 2025 Congress will require careful maneuvering. DeBonis notes that democracy advocates within the Democratic Party might concede less to the notion of a free pass in their opposition to Republican-led initiatives, which could lead to targeted, issue-focused responses rather than an all-encompassing resistance.
This strategic redirection may embolden Democrats to leverage media narratives around corruption, high-profile figures within Trump’s circle, and potential conflicts of interest, particularly surrounding individuals like Musk. The examination of influence, both political and financial, can pivot public discourse and mobilize opposition to GOP-sponsored legislation.
Looking ahead, it’s evident that Trump’s administration, shaped by a resurgence of populist sentiments and more cohesive party alignment, will focus aggressively on implementing its agenda. The challenge that will loom over GOP leaders is maintaining internal unity while navigating the external pressures of a polarized electorate.
As Trump addresses his supporters, promising to fulfill campaign pledges, the cohesive but potentially volatile combination of populist ideologies and traditional Republican tenets will require careful stewardship. If past experiences are any indication, the path forward will be marked by intense debates and the necessity of rapid decision-making as opportunities arise—or risks emerge.
With Trump’s return to leadership, political observers will watch closely as individuals like Susie Wiles and Ric Grenell shape an administration that attempts to withstand outside pressures while fulfilling the expectations of an energized base. The precise formation of policy priorities and the accompanying efforts to enact them will signal not only the future of Trump's political clout but also the broader direction of the GOP for years to come.
The pace of change in Washington is likely to be swift, characterized by a blend of familiar faces and new ideas as Trump reinstates his brand of governance. It remains to be seen how this administration will engage with the legislative process and whether they will learn from past missteps or further entrench existing divisions both within the party and across the aisle.
As the new administration gears up for action, one thing is certain: the political landscape in Washington will be anything but predictable.
Olivia Brown for TROIB News
“Ric Grenell raised some eyebrows when he appeared alongside Trump at the Zelenskyy meeting in September,” remarked Meridith McGraw, national correspondent for PMG, who has been reporting on Trump since 2019. She noted that the combative former Trump administration official is now being considered as a potential State Department chief, a scenario that could cause concern among some Republican senators.
McGraw shared insights about the likely composition of Trump’s next Cabinet during a Playbook Deep Dive podcast discussion with Mike DeBonis, editor of Playbook. DeBonis previously covered House Republicans during Trump’s initial presidency as they attempted to transform his unconventional campaign platform into tangible policy.
The GOP is poised to reclaim a governing trifecta, holding the House, Senate, and White House. Although this new cycle will see Republicans with a narrower majority in the House, their ideological alignment with their leader appears stronger, which could facilitate smoother governance.
“The Paul Ryan party is gone,” stated DeBonis. “It’s Donald Trump’s party.”
This conversation has undergone edits for length and clarity, courtesy of Deep Dive Producer Kara Tabor and Senior Producer Alex Keeney. For more details, you can listen to the full Playbook Deep Dive podcast.
How do you anticipate daily operations in Washington will change with Trump’s return?
Mike DeBonis: We haven't experienced a trifecta setup for two years; divided government has been the norm. Now, with unified control reinstated, legislative movement can occur without extensive negotiations across party lines. Although we’ve seen discussions on the debt limit and spending, larger issues have been sidelined. We're now shifting back to taking on major challenges.
Let’s delve into some key players in D.C. One notable figure is Susie Wiles, whom Trump has named as chief of staff. What are her attributes?
Meridith McGraw: She commands considerable respect from Trump, his family, his inner circle, and congressional allies. When she started in early 2021, Trump had become politically untouchable, yet Susie took on the challenge of revamping his operations and significantly aiding his comeback before he even declared his candidacy.
Mike DeBonis: I remember a standout moment from Trump’s victory speech when he referred to her as “the Ice Maiden.” It perfectly illustrated her role, particularly considering how uncomfortable she seems in the spotlight.
She seems to prefer being in the mix without being out front.
Mike DeBonis: I met her once at the Gridiron dinner, and it was clear that she values her privacy while still being influential. For anyone involved in Trump's chief of staff role, managing the egos present is crucial, given the tumultuous nature of the last administration.
She’s been able to communicate with Trump directly, sharing her perspective on contentious issues, such as when she voiced her concerns about Laura Loomer accompanying him on his plane. Though he may not always heed her advice, she has a way of getting through to him.
Mike DeBonis: Unlike some former aides, she seems adept at delivering unpleasant truths to him.
Meridith McGraw: She holds a level of respect that few others do.
Are there other individuals in Trump’s circle worth monitoring during this transitional period?
Meridith McGraw: Currently, we’re hearing various names linked to the transition, including former officials like John Ratcliffe, Robert Lighthizer, and Brian Hook, who are gathering names, resumes, and policy ideas relevant to the forthcoming Trump administration. It’s evident that anyone hoping to reclaim a role from the previous administration is stepping forward to contribute.
Regarding the Senate, with Mitch McConnell stepping down from leadership, what can we expect from the upcoming leadership election?
Mike DeBonis: This could arguably be the most significant leadership election in two decades. The person who wins will likely lead at a time rich with legislative opportunities. However, the candidates, particularly Thune and Cornyn, share many similarities.
Who are the front-runners?
Mike DeBonis: The primary candidates are John Cornyn, the former Republican whip, John Thune, the current Republican whip, and Rick Scott, the former NRSC chair who is positioning himself as a conservative challenger.
The vital aspect of this race is that the outcome depends heavily on the roughly 52 to 54 Republican senators who will cast their votes privately. Outside influences, including Trump’s endorsement, may not significantly sway the decision.
On Thursday, Thune commented on Trump, suggesting that an endorsement from him might not be advantageous. This reveals a nuanced relationship between Trump and Thune.
Now shifting to the House, Speaker Mike Johnson is expected to run for re-election. Does he need Trump’s backing to maintain his role?
Mike DeBonis: In Trump’s victory speech, he praised Mike Johnson’s performance. Assuming Republicans hold onto their majority, I don't foresee an intense battle for the speakership. Trump's support will likely solidify Johnson’s position.
However, some centrist Republicans are suggesting a potential challenge should the majority be slim.
I find it hard to believe that there will be significant contention over this.
Meridith McGraw: As we consider the transition and the Senate, names like Sen. Marco Rubio and Sen. Bill Hagerty frequently arise for potential roles in the new administration.
It seems likely we’ll see notable movements in the Senate.
Mike DeBonis: I believe some senators will more likely be selected for cabinet positions than House members, particularly given the delicate state of the House majority.
For State Department speculation, Ric Grenell is mentioned alongside other contenders like Robert O'Brien and Marco Rubio.
Meridith McGraw: There’s considerable behind-the-scenes lobbying for these roles, which has been ongoing for some time. Grenell, in particular, attracted attention during a recent meeting with Trump, sparking discussions about his potential role.
To clarify why he’s controversial, could you elaborate?
Meridith McGraw: He has a reputation for being combative, especially in his prior role as ambassador to Germany. It's worth debating whether a diplomatic role suits someone with Grenell’s track record.
For Treasury, we see prominent names like Robert Lighthizer and Howard Lutnick enter the mix.
It’s challenging to discern who is genuinely seeking positions and who is merely floating their names.
Meridith McGraw: The current phase is crowded with individuals presenting themselves for roles, trying to catch Trump’s attention in any way possible. For the State Department, we hear names like Grenell and Rubio. As for Treasury, figures like Lighthizer and Lutnick are prominent, though Lutnick's dual role as transition co-chair may raise concerns regarding conflicts.
Some are vocal about their ambitions; for instance, John Paulson has candidly discussed his aspirations in interviews.
Mike DeBonis: It's fascinating to see this level of openness among Treasury contenders, reminiscent of the first Trump administration when political maneuvering often played out publicly rather than behind closed doors.
Meridith, you’ve reported extensively on the America First Policy Institute, which is emerging as a pivotal player. What are they up to?
Meridith McGraw: This institute, established by former Trump officials like Linda McMahon and Kellyanne Conway, aims to develop a platform for potential conservative policies. They position themselves as architects of a future Republican administration focused on Trump's “America First” ethos.
Is there a faction within Trump’s inner circle that appears to be gaining influence?
Meridith McGraw: With Trump's latest victory, the populist wing, represented by figures like JD Vance and Don Jr., seems to be gaining prominence. This could set the stage for a conflict between this faction and the more traditional Republican voices.
Mike DeBonis: Trump’s individual policy preferences may influence these divisions, particularly if the House majority remains slim.
Elon Musk’s role seems noteworthy — what’s your assessment of his impact?
Mike DeBonis: Trump devoted considerable time in his speech discussing Musk, showcasing Forbes’ significant presence in the political discourse without an official role in government. Musk's influence and media platform position him as a vital figure in Trump’s orbit.
Meridith McGraw: Recent observations indicate Musk and Trump spend substantial time together, reinforcing Musk’s proximity to Trump.
What plans do Republicans have for their first days in power under this trifecta?
Meridith McGraw: Key focuses include tariffs and border policies, set to top Trump’s agenda on day one.
Reflecting on past challenges, what lessons might Republicans learn from their initial trifecta in 2017?
Mike DeBonis: The struggle to repeal Obamacare remains a stark reminder for Republicans, especially given their significantly smaller House majority this time. Navigating the needs of marginal members will be critical in shaping their strategy on taxes, healthcare, and immigration.
The current House dynamic favors Trump and his vision, although individual members may have differing opinions on the execution of legislation.
What changes might we expect from Democrats in their response to a Republican resurgence?
Mike DeBonis: Unlike 2017, there’s a fundamentally different atmosphere following Trump’s popular success. This time, Democrats might adopt a more strategic approach to resistance, focusing on specific issues such as corruption rather than broadly characterizing the administration as illegitimate.
Where will Trump’s inner circle congregate now that his Pennsylvania Avenue hotel is closed?
Meridith McGraw: Some Trump associates still want to visit the hotel, reminiscing about familiar staff. Cap Grille and Joe's are popular spots, alongside venues like The War Room at the Willard, where Steve Bannon operates.
Mike DeBonis: There's an emerging opportunity for a conservative restaurateur to create a new hub for Trump supporters.
Listen to this episode of Playbook Deep Dive on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.As Trump’s team prepares for the reshaping of his administration, the political landscape promises to evolve rapidly. The interplay between old and new allies, as well as the ongoing presence of influential figures like Elon Musk, suggests that the dynamics within the GOP will be continuously in flux.
The recent election results not only reflect Trump's enduring popularity but also highlight the hardened divisions among Republicans and the lasting impact of populist sentiments within the party. With the potential for dramatic policy shifts taking place right from the start, the stakes in Congress are high as lawmakers adjust to their new roles.
Meridith McGraw pointed out that both tariffs and border security initiatives are set to take precedence early in Trump’s government. Addressing these issues could resonate well with his base, invigorating his support among core voters. The strategy could very well include pushback against previous policies while reinstating some of the signature initiatives from his prior administration.
Mike DeBonis emphasizes that the 2023 Republican majority will drastically differ from that of 2017. With a narrower margin, GOP leaders will need to be strategic about their legislative agenda, identifying which initiatives can realistically be passed without alienating moderates within their ranks. These lawmakers, aware of their vulnerable positions in historically competitive districts, could be instrumental in dictating the pace and nature of the party's legislative efforts.
Moreover, McGraw also highlighted the critical relationships that will need to be built and nurtured within Congress. The evolving relationships between Trump and key congressional players—some of whom may vie for influence or prominence in Trump’s new Cabinet—will determine not just policy outcomes but also the emotional and strategic landscape in the GOP.
In the wake of the election, the infrastructure within Republican circles is brimming with speculation, and potential aspirations are taking shape within Trump's orbit. As former officials align themselves to reclaim their previous roles or find new avenues within the government, the sense of urgency to solidify Trump’s political vision is palpable.
An ongoing area of concern for GOP leadership will be how they navigate interactions with Democrats. As opposition strategies evolve, the landscape of the 2025 Congress will require careful maneuvering. DeBonis notes that democracy advocates within the Democratic Party might concede less to the notion of a free pass in their opposition to Republican-led initiatives, which could lead to targeted, issue-focused responses rather than an all-encompassing resistance.
This strategic redirection may embolden Democrats to leverage media narratives around corruption, high-profile figures within Trump’s circle, and potential conflicts of interest, particularly surrounding individuals like Musk. The examination of influence, both political and financial, can pivot public discourse and mobilize opposition to GOP-sponsored legislation.
Looking ahead, it’s evident that Trump’s administration, shaped by a resurgence of populist sentiments and more cohesive party alignment, will focus aggressively on implementing its agenda. The challenge that will loom over GOP leaders is maintaining internal unity while navigating the external pressures of a polarized electorate.
As Trump addresses his supporters, promising to fulfill campaign pledges, the cohesive but potentially volatile combination of populist ideologies and traditional Republican tenets will require careful stewardship. If past experiences are any indication, the path forward will be marked by intense debates and the necessity of rapid decision-making as opportunities arise—or risks emerge.
With Trump’s return to leadership, political observers will watch closely as individuals like Susie Wiles and Ric Grenell shape an administration that attempts to withstand outside pressures while fulfilling the expectations of an energized base. The precise formation of policy priorities and the accompanying efforts to enact them will signal not only the future of Trump's political clout but also the broader direction of the GOP for years to come.
The pace of change in Washington is likely to be swift, characterized by a blend of familiar faces and new ideas as Trump reinstates his brand of governance. It remains to be seen how this administration will engage with the legislative process and whether they will learn from past missteps or further entrench existing divisions both within the party and across the aisle.
As the new administration gears up for action, one thing is certain: the political landscape in Washington will be anything but predictable.
Olivia Brown for TROIB News
