Republican lawmakers, in statements shared with To Vima, celebrated President Donald Trump’s re-election, framing the outcome as a mandate for a new direction on issues such as the economy, national security, and immigration.
With high voter turnout as a backdrop, GOP members expressed optimism about advancing their agenda with support from anticipated majorities in Congress.
Rep. Darrell Issa (R-CA) described the election as “a fresh start, a new direction, and a nation as great as ever.” Issa interpreted Trump’s re-election as a sign of confidence from Americans eager for “a better course of opportunity.” He emphasized his readiness to work on Republican priorities, such as strengthening the economy, enhancing national defense, and securing borders.
Rep. Nicole Malliotakis, R-N.Y., said the election was “the first step to save America” by re-electing Trump and securing a Republican Senate majority. “The country made overwhelmingly clear that they want secure borders, safe cities, and America to be affordable and prosperous,” Malliotakis said. She added that she would continue advancing these priorities in Congress on behalf of her New York constituents.
Rep. Gus Bilirakis, R-Fla., praised the high voter turnout, saying it “gives President Trump a clear mandate to restore an America-First agenda.” Bilirakis emphasized priorities such as the economy, secure borders, and a strong national defense, interpreting Trump’s re-election as signaling a “new day” for the world. He added, “This monumental victory sends a clear message to our allies and adversaries around the globe that a new day is dawning in America.”
Rep. Grace Meng, D-N.Y., whose Queens district includes a significant Greek-American community, emphasized the importance of sustaining momentum in the U.S.-Greece relationship. Meng reaffirmed her commitment to working with the bipartisan Hellenic Caucus to strengthen ties with Greece and emphasized the need to stand up to regional actors like Turkey.
“I believe the U.S.-Hellenic relationship is a vital source of stability in the Eastern Mediterranean and mutual benefit for both Greece and the United States,” Meng said.
Trump Pushes for Streamlined Appointments and Power Consolidation in Second Term
In his second term, Donald Trump is moving quickly to consolidate his authority, employing strategies to bypass traditional confirmation processes and reward loyalists.
Frustrated by the Senate confirmation struggles he faced during his first term, Trump is exploring ways to avoid Senate approval altogether, urging Republican leaders to consider enabling recess appointments. He is also placing trusted allies in key positions that do not require Senate confirmation, a move that strengthens his control over the administration.
Over four years out of office, Trump has reshaped the GOP, sidelining dissent and consolidating his influence. As Senate Republicans prepare for new leadership post-Mitch McConnell, the absence of high-profile skeptics like Sen. Mitt Romney and former House Speaker Paul Ryan signals a shift in party dynamics.
Empowered by the limits of a final term, Trump appears poised to pursue some of his most ambitious—and potentially contentious—plans.
While Trump’s plans may face significant legal and logistical hurdles—particularly regarding recess appointments—he and his allies appear determined to act swiftly. This assertive approach marks a clear shift from his more measured start to his first term, underscoring his intent to make lasting changes within the limits of a final term in office.
