Democrats in Congress are balancing their efforts to get tough President Trump while also pledging to work with him wherever possible after the Republican commander-in-chief takes office.
It comes at a time when moderate Democrats and Democrats in vulnerable seats have been making overtures to Republicans in areas like Republicans border security and transgender youth following the Republican Party’s impressive victories in the 2024 elections — which is widely interpreted on the right as a mandate for a more conservative America.
“My job is to fight to improve the lives of Texas families, and I will work with anyone, Democrat or Republican, who is interested in lowering costs, securing our border, and keeping our communities,” freshman Rep. Julie Johnson, D.-Texas, who attended the inauguration, said in a statement.
“But make no mistake: I will always stand up to President Trump, his administration, division and far-right extremism when any of these individuals or entities threaten our way of life.”
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Democrats in purple and red states, such as Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto and Rep. Julie Johnson, said they would work with President Trump whenever possible, but would also stand up to him (Getty Images)
Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, D-Nev., who ran tight races in 2016 and 2022 and is expected to do so again in 2028, said in a statement: “I look forward to working with the new administration to raise prices reduction and create jobs. , and keep our communities safe. But make no mistake: If President Trump uses his position to hurt hardworking Nevadans, I will always stand strong to protect them.”
Rep. Jimmy Panetta, D-Calif., struck a similarly conciliatory tone.
“Progress can be made on housing, environmental stewardship, public safety, immigration reform, national security and more. “I will work with everyone and every administration to pursue areas of agreement and aggressively deliver results for the people I serve,” he said. .
Trump was sworn in on Monday. (Kevin Lamarque/AFP via Getty Images)
“I also firmly believe that our diversity is our strength and that our unity is the power to persevere and succeed, regardless of the many challenges we face. Law-abiding immigrants, the LGBTQ+ community, women and families recovering from devastating natural disasters are understandably concerned about the rhetoric coming from the campaign trail and the possible policies of the Trump administration.”
Other Democrats were more cautious in their statements, such as Rep. Chris Deluzio, D-Pa., who said on X: “Today, and always, I am rooting hard for this country of ours, and I wish (President Trump) the best as he takes on the responsibility of leading America.”
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Progressive Rep. Becca Balint said, “We must face these challenges with courage and clarity.” (AP/Lisa Rathke)
However, progressive Rep. Becca Balint, D-Vt., made clear she would take a tougher approach against Trump.
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“Day 1 under Trump. We must face these challenges and attacks with courage and clarity. “I am ready for the work ahead to defend our Constitution and will work tirelessly to meet the urgent needs of Vermonters and working people across America,” she said. wrote on X.
Trump was sworn for his second term during an inauguration ceremony at the U.S. Capitol.
