The New York Times reports that Senate Democrats are looking for ways to work with a Trump administration. Think trade policy, infrastructure spending, some family-friendly ideas like paid maternity leave.

Sounds like a good idea. Dividing the Republican Party, particularly on spending, might be not only sound politically but popular. Voters want an end to gridlock, don’t they? Don’t populists who supported Trump LIKE government help and intervention? They certainly do in the blood-red South, long a huge net importer of federal dollars.

Advertisement

The big question lingers: Who knows what to expect from Donald Trump?

Unfortunately, we do know what to expect from people like Sen. Tom Cotton, Attorney General Leslie Rutledge and Mike Huckabee, all mentioned as potential appointees to high government positions. Working with the opposition party has not been part of their DNA.

By the way: A special election would have to be held to fill a vacancy in a U.S. Senate seat, though the governor would appoint a temporary officeholder. The Arkansas Constitution provides for filling vacancies in the office of attorney general by gubernatorial appointment. But, as Donald Trump said to black voters, “What have you got to lose?”

Advertisement

Be a part of something bigger

As a reader of the Arkansas Times, you know we’re dedicated to bringing you tough, determined, and feisty journalism that holds the powerful accountable. For 50 years, we've been fighting the good fight in Little Rock and beyond – with your support, we can do even more. By becoming a subscriber or donating as little as $1 to our efforts, you'll not only have access to all of our articles, but you'll also be helping us hire more writers to expand our coverage and continue to bring important stories to light. With over 63,000 Facebook followers, 58,000 Twitter followers, 35,000 Arkansas blog followers, and 70,000 daily email blasts, it's clear that our readers value our great journalism. Join us in the fight for truth.

Previous article Griffin hints at pushback against medical marijuana Next article Union wins a little relief from order against entering Walmart property