John Thune’s Nightmare

Punchbowl News: “The period leading up to the July 4th recess will test Senate GOP leaders’ ability to close out this legislative sprint without allowing Trump to get in their way.”

“Much of this is out of Senate Republicans’ control. Trump has been keeping Thune in the dark on key decisions. Some GOP senators are wondering whether it’s a ploy to pressure Thune to eliminate the filibuster and other Senate traditions that Trump sees as impeding his agenda.”

“Thune and most Senate Republicans are eager to put these battles behind them and shift their focus to the midterm elections. They’re already combating major political headwinds and staring down the possibility — albeit a slim one — that their majority could disappear in the November midterms.”

“Does the nightmare continue? The fear among Senate GOP leaders is that this becomes their new normal when dealing with Trump, regardless of whether it’s carelessness or intentional sabotage by the president.”