WASHINGTON — Gathering for a joyful post-election celebration on Capitol Hill, Republican lawmakers celebrated a major political victory Wednesday after losing control of Congress in sweeping midterm defeats, expressing relief that they could finally return to doing nothing after two exhausting years of having the power to do something.
Speaking to reporters shortly after the election results became clear, Senate Majority Leader John Thune congratulated Democrats on their victories, describing the loss of Republican control as a welcome opportunity for lawmakers to take a much-needed break from the responsibilities of not governing.
“These past two years have been incredibly demanding,” said Thune, who spent much of his time as majority leader avoiding votes, declining to challenge Democratic priorities, and ensuring that Republican lawmakers remained safely protected from having to accomplish anything.
“We’ve been under tremendous pressure to deliver results for the American people, and frankly, it’s been exhausting. I’m looking forward to getting back to the business of fundraising, making television appearances, and blaming Democrats for everything.”
Other Republican lawmakers echoed Thune’s sentiments, with several reportedly popping champagne bottles on the Senate floor as the party’s losses mounted. House Republicans were also said to be celebrating the prospect of returning to the minority, where they could once again focus their attention on sending angry fundraising emails instead of passing legislation.
At press time, Republican leaders were reportedly preparing a new legislative agenda centered around investigating Democrats for failing to accomplish the very things Republicans had spent the previous two years refusing to accomplish.
