Lessons from Past “Trifecta” Administrations
This presentation is a short analysis of patterns and implications of ambitious policy priorities by presidents with party control of both the Senate and the House of Representatives from Harry S. Truman to Joe Biden.
Over the last 75 years, ten presidents have entered office with their party controlling both chambers, leading to patterns of significant, though sometimes polarizing, legislative achievements. These patterns also reflect some the challenges of governing, including the potential backlash in midterm elections and other political consequences.