Relations between President Donald Trump and Senate Republicans neared a breaking point this week. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Associated Press.
Trump upended their efforts to speedily confirm one of his own nominees, Jay Clayton, for national intelligence director, delaying the nomination just hours before the confirmation hearing. He also said he would not sign the renewal of a key surveillance law unless they agree to new terms.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., was seen leaving the Capitol on Thursday, June 18, 2026. Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., called Trump's deal to end the Iran war "the worst foreign policy blunder in decades."
The open tensions are a complete reversal from a year ago when Senate Republicans worked closely with Trump on his massive package of spending and tax cuts. As the November election draws closer, Trump is needling Congress with his demands, driving several Republicans to openly criticize him.