Democrats won Congress, but their Trump obsession could give it right back

Very few in Washington saw Democrats taking both chambers of Congress to this extent.The results changed who controls Congress, but they did not change what voters need: lower costs, a stronger economy, and a government focused on the problems families face.Republicans should take the result seriously and make a clear case for how conservative policies can meet those needs.

In the lame-duck session, Congress still has to fund the government and pass the annual defense bill.Republicans should work to finish that business and show voters that governing matters more than scoring points.The bigger test begins in January.

Democratic leaders have promised investigations into the administration, its officials, and companies.That choice could consume the new Congress.

It could also repeat a political mistake Democrats have made before: turning their opposition to Trump into the central story, and giving him the chance to cast himself as the target of a partisan campaign.JAMIE RASKIN CALLS CONCERNS OVER SPENDING TOO MUCH TIME INVESTIGATING TRUMP A MEDIA 'NARRATIVE'That argument helped Trump in 2024.He made the prosecutions and investigations against him a central part of his appeal, and voters returned him to the White House.

Democrats should understand the risk.A Congress organized around investigating Trump could once again make him the central figure in the national debate, while leaving less time and attention for the issues voters want addressed.The stakes extend beyond the administration.

Democratic lawmakers have warned that companies, too, should expect investigations.When Congress puts private businesses under a partisan spotlight because of their dealings with the government or their connection to a political dispute, the consequences reach employees, investors, and communities.

It can also make businesses think twice about working with the federal government, even when that partnership serves the public.JEFFRIES LEAVES DOOR OPEN TO INVESTIGATING MAJOR TRUMP ...