What does Graham's death and McConnell's absence mean for the Democratic agenda in the Senate?

[wcmagumba]

It's got to be helpful for them, I think.

[TheProle]

1. It's a huge opportunity for sure.

[dem4decades]

2. They will be replaced by more horrible people, if that's possible.

[wcmagumba]

3. Not sure that is possible but the Thugs will find a way, in the meantime let's pass some Dem priorities...

[lamp_shade]

4. Could be but, remember, the Rs have Fetterman.

[J_William_Ryan]

5. "It's got to be helpful for them"

Nope.

Two hard-core red states – both will be replaced by Republicans.

[onenote]

6. Next to nothing.

Repubs still control the Senate, 51-47. They set the agenda, decide whether a bill moves. There have been very few bills passed this Congress where the outcome would have been different without Graham and McConnell available to vote.

[appmanga]

9. Right now, that's effectively 49-47...

...and while Graham could be quickly replaced, I would think it wouldn't happen that quickly in a state with an outgoing governor with something this big to leverage.

[onenote]

10. How do you come up with 49-47?

There were 53 repubs and 47 Democrats, including the two independents that vote with the Democrats. Without McConnell and Graham, its 51-47 Fetterman actually is an unreliable vote for the Democrats, so one could argue that it's closer to 52-46. And while some claim that Cornyn and Cassidy aren't reliable votes for the republicans, there is no evidence that they will start supporting Democrats or Democratic positions.

[appmanga]

12. Used your number in your post...

...but I see you've clarified that. In any case, this Senate isn't going to be doing much for the next few months.

[onenote]

13. The Senate only has around 30 "legislative" days when they are in session before the election.

But they have 22 more after the election and can do a lot of damage in that lame duck session.

[GoodRaisin]

7. Two court packers going at the same time.

Things are looking up for democrats.

[Blue Owl]

8. Two less assholes to deal with

[MineralMan]

11. Ask again after the November election.

For now, though, it's irrelevant. Get to work flipping seats in your own state. That's what matters.