With Sen. Tillis' departure, Trump puts the Senate in play in 2026, says WSJ editorial board

Political Landscape & Senate Dynamics - Republican Senator Tom Tillis from North Carolina announced he will not seek re-election next year [1] - Tillis opposed the Republican tax and spending bill, drawing criticism from President Trump [2] - Tillis's departure is expected to create a competitive race in North Carolina, with Lara Trump potentially running [5] - The Wall Street Journal editorial board suggests Tillis's departure puts the Senate in play for 2026 [5][6] - GOP Congressman Don Bacon also announced he won't run for reelection, a potential gain for Democrats in the House [6] Healthcare & Medicaid Reform - The proposed Medicaid changes could potentially remove coverage from 11 million people [11] - Combined with changes to Obamacare, up to 16 million people could lose healthcare coverage [11] - These changes would represent the most significant backtracking in US health insurance coverage history [12] - Senator Susan Collins seeks substantive changes to the bill, particularly regarding Medicaid cuts and their impact on hospitals [22][23][26] Republican Party Division & Trump's Influence - The report highlights the internal struggle within the Republican party regarding opposition to Trump [14][15] - Some Republicans feel there is no room for independence or bipartisanship in the current political climate [19] - Trump's influence on Republican primary voters is a key factor in the decisions of politicians like Tillis [17] Congressional Voting & Bill Support - Several moderate Republicans in the House are opposed to the current Medicaid cuts [23][24][28] - Republicans can only afford to lose three votes in the House and one vote in the Senate to pass the bill [28][29] - Amendments are being introduced to address concerns, such as increasing the rural hospital fund [25][26]