The GOP has allowed Trump to expand his authority. Here's where they're pushing back

The GOP has allowed Trump to expand his authority. Here's where they're pushing back

Sam Gringlas

December 09, 2025 / 2:00 am

The Republican-controlled House and Senate have not done much to stand in the way of President Trump — even when his actions have encroached on terrain the Constitution reserved for them.

But there are signs that some Republican lawmakers are trying to reassert their independence.

When news broke last week that the Pentagon carried out a second strike on two individuals on a largely-destroyed alleged drug boat in the Caribbean Sea, even some Republicans expressed alarm.

"Somebody made a horrible decision," Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., told reporters in the Capitol. "Somebody needs to be held accountable. This is our job. This is part of oversight. That's pretty