The recent midterm elections have delivered a clear message from the American electorate: they want a government that prioritizes working families over the influence of billionaires, and they expect lawmakers to work across the aisle to tackle the nation's most pressing challenges. The McCain Institute, a prominent bipartisan policy organization, is now urging Congress to translate that mandate into concrete legislative action on both domestic and foreign fronts.
In a new analysis, the Institute emphasizes that voters repudiated not only the war on Iran but also other misguided policies, signaling a desire for leaders who exhibit character and integrity, akin to the late Senator John McCain. McCain famously defended his political opponent at a 2008 town hall, rejecting fear-mongering and derision. That spirit, the Institute argues, should guide Congress as it addresses economic pressures, regulates emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, and strengthens national security against adversaries such as Russia and China.
The Institute calls on Congress to reassert its authority over tariff and sanctions policy, particularly regarding Russia. Lawmakers should demand enforcement of the sanctions bill named after the late Senator Lindsey Graham, which requires the administration to justify any waiver allowing the purchase of Russian diesel. The recent White House waiver, which permits such purchases, must be scrutinized and repudiated, the Institute insists, adding legal uncertainty for entities handling what it calls "blood-soaked fuel."
On defense, the Institute urges Congress to fund a strategy that keeps America out of war by enhancing deterrence and strengthening alliances. It advocates for a modernized conventional force that blends high and low technology, while maintaining a credible nuclear deterrent. The organization also stresses the importance of supporting allies as they increase their own defense capabilities, particularly in bolstering Ukrainian industrial synergies and securing supply chains.
The Institute's recommendations come as Congress prepares for a lame-duck session, where it can quickly assert its intent on sanctions and other consensus issues through the annual defense authorization bill. Additionally, the Institute urges lawmakers to begin drafting legislation on social media and AI that balances democratic values with the need to maintain a global competitive edge. On the international front, it encourages the administration to work with China on rules governing AI to protect humanity from worst-case scenarios.
These proposals align with broader calls for bipartisan governance. As voters delivered a stunning defeat to Trump and the GOP, giving Democrats a governing mandate, the pressure is on Congress to deliver results. However, the midterm rebuke was historic but not a full Democratic mandate, underscoring the need for cross-party cooperation.
The Institute's call for action extends to addressing tight votes on permitting reform and other key legislation, as Democrats weigh their mandate. Meanwhile, some Democrats are urging Schumer to step aside to allow new leadership to govern effectively.
Ultimately, the McCain Institute's message is clear: Congress has a narrow window to demonstrate that it can govern in a bipartisan manner, address economic and security challenges, and restore public trust. The American people have given them the mandate; now it is up to them to use it.
