The Republican-controlled Congress has left Washington for their monthlong August recess without accomplishing any of President Donald Trump's major initiatives.
When Sen. John McCain voted no on the Affordable Care Act repeal bill endorsed by Republicans, he essentially thumbed his nose at a president who campaigned on the issue. But after Trump’s first six months in office, “Obamacare” remains the law of the land. That is due in large part to members of his own party. Despite controlling the House, the Senate and the White House, congressional Republicans can’t seem to get on the same page.
Rep. Peter King (R-Seaford) points to increased military spending, Homeland Security funding, the Russian sanctions and reform of the VA as successes so far. But King acknowledges that Congress’ inability to come up with a broadly supported health care plan can’t be ignored.
Many Trump supporters, like East Northport’s Paul Basel, are agitated that Congress hasn’t fully backed the president’s agenda.
“I’m very upset with Sen. McCain for not at least moving forward on some of these bills,” says Basel.
But others blame the president for the legislative stalemate. One thing most people do seem to agree on is the idea that the past six months have probably been a bit of an eye-opener for Trump.
“I think he just feels that everything is going to be his way whether you like it or you don't like it, and it just doesn't work that way,” says Laura Vivenzio, of Syosset.
Trump supporters point to some of his executive orders as early accomplishments, although the president's detractors would argue with that. Trump himself today is touting the latest jobs report, calling the numbers "excellent," and adding on Twitter, "I have only just begun."