What Went Down During Joe Biden’s Inauguration

To me, the bigger question is whether Biden can keep the Democratic caucuses in the Senate and House unified. Democrats can pass a lot of meat-and-potatoes legislation (COVID-19 relief, election reform, strengthening Obamacare) using Democratic votes alone (the Green New Deal, Medicare for all, etc. were never going to happen given Biden’s moderation).

Sarah, I think Biden’s background on Capitol Hill and relationships with people like soon-to-be Senate Minority Leader McConnell could enable some bits of unity and progress. But on big moves, it’s going to be like pulling teeth because of how far apart the parties are. So I don’t expect many big things to happen with bipartisan support.

I think one big initial test for Biden, Sarah, is the sweeping coronavirus relief bill he’s said will be one of his first priorities. Over the past year, Congress has been in a pretty much constant state of deadlock over relief measures that economists and public health experts say are necessary to keep the country afloat in a time of crisis. Biden’s relief package is certainly bold, but he could really struggle to get Republicans on board with the $1.9 trillion price tag. And of course, it looks like the Senate could be juggling a second impeachment trial for Trump at the same time.