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Since 1847, the federal government has seen a united government 48 times. This is when the Senate, House and President are all controlled by the same party. This has happened 25 times for Republicans and 23 for Democrats.

Recent history suggests this pattern with an exception:

• President Bill Clinton – 2 years (first term)
• President George W. Bush – 6 years (except first term)
• President Barack Obama – 2 years (first term)
• President Donald Trump – 2 years (in his first term)
• President Donald Trump – TBD, currently enjoys unified control in his first term

This seesaw is the general pattern – one party has control of all branches for 2 years, then the pendulum swings back to a divided government.

There are many reasons for the brief control of all branches. Some of these include media influence, opposing party, extreme policies, unrest and perceived negative impact.

Each party can has a “base” of voters who are consistent and party loyal.
The vast majority of Americans are moderate or curious voters, driven by issues that are important to them.

If there is a clear message presented by one side on the key issues when a party has seemingly failed or does not present their message clearly, the incumbents seem to lose.

Project 2025 anticipated this pattern, and created a 180 day plan.
I think this timeline is set intentionally for the following reasons:

1. Get as much done as possible in 2025
2. Give time to allow the dust to settle before the next election cycle
3. Allow Republican candidates to come back to the middle

Given all of the above, the Democratic party is going to need to establish a plan and a message that does not involve calling Trump a fascist or dictator or evil man.

Some of the key topics of focus might be restoring foreign policies – like re-joining WHO and Paris Climate Agreement, restoring welfare program initiatvies, reducing or eliminating tariffs introduced by the Trump administration, and easing up on deportations. There will be cases to be made that reversing those would improve foreign relations, reduce cost of certain products and bring back a focus on taking care of the earth we live on.

The Democrats need to use the next year to learn from what is happening in the White House and on the floor of the Senate and House, pay attention to negative impacts of executive orders or bills passed, or elimination/reduction of government programs. Then a plan and a clear message can be formulated about why to bring back balance to Congress in 2027.

In mid to late 2025, the dust will settle from this onslaught of extreme right policies and in 2026 the campaign trail will be opened again with opportunities to support and endorse different candidates.

The pendulum continues to swing – It is all part of the pattern.