(AURN News) – In a recent press briefing on Air Force One, Principal Deputy Press Secretary Olivia Dalton addressed growing concerns over former President Donald Trump’s continued influence on Capitol Hill. The buzz comes after President Joe Biden met with Congressional leaders this week. The White House, however, downplayed any apprehensions, asserting that the administration remains focused on bipartisan cooperation.
“As federal officials, we can’t speak to Trump as a candidate under the Hatch Act. But what I can say is that, as the President has repeatedly said, there is strong bipartisan agreement on the need for action on the border,” Dalton said.
She went on to mention that President Biden is actively working with both Senate Democrats and Republicans to find common ground.
“He believes that our work with Senate Democrats and Republicans on the border, while we haven’t reached a final agreement on funding and policy, is moving in the right direction. He is optimistic that the conversations are productive and positive, and we’re going to keep at it,” she affirmed.
The White House’s reassurance comes as Speaker of the House Republican Mike Johnson made it clear that he remains in close communication with former President Trump. This communication adds a layer of complexity to the political landscape, as Trump’s influence continues to shape discussions on key issues such as border security.
As the Biden administration navigates the challenges of a divided Congress, the question of Trump’s ongoing sway on Capitol Hill remains a topic of interest.
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