What should the Democrats do now? It is question to which many would have diverse answers. But fortunately, they seem unlikely to immediately do what Trump was expecting – impeach him.

The Democrats, instead of following this probably futile approach, are planning to undertake a sustained campaign of investigation into Trump corruption through the committee system.

Trump is also threatening that he will use his power of veto legislation the Democrats pass.

Given the constraints on reversing a veto that would actually be counter-productive for Republicans looking beyond the Trump era. What do the few remaining Republicans do if popular policies were given the kibosh? They will be forced to choose between being seen in favour of lame duck Trump policies   – while trying to campaign in a new reality where candidates would want to be distancing themselves as far as possible from Trump.

Paul Krugman, in a November 5 Substack post outlined the problem, saying, “The American people have just delivered a stunning rebuke to Donald Trump. If we had a parliamentary system, the moving truck would already be at the White House.”

“As it is, however, an increasingly deranged and debilitated Trump will remain in control of foreign policy, national security and many of the federal government’s domestic operations for two more years” he said.

Krugman points out the Trump and his crew have been stealing billions – a reality reflected in pre-election polling results which showed public overwhelming recognition of the administration’s corruption.

“And Democrats know it. On Tuesday night Rep. Robert Garcia – the probably chair of the House Oversight Committee has a blunt message to Trump – lawyer up”.

Krugman provides a list of popular policies which Trump would veto and which would provide Democrats with campaign material right up to the 2028 Presidential election.

Top of the Krugman list is strengthening sanctions on Russia and restoring aid to Ukraine.

But he also lists other opportunities – refusing to spend more billions on the failed Iran War; ending Trump’s tariffs; safeguarding Americans from AI dangers; ending ICE abuses, ending immigration policies which harm America; levying a windfall profits tax on oil companies; boosting cost-effective green energy; legislating to prevent politicians and their families benefitting financially from their office.”

A thorough investigation into how Trump became Putin’s lap dog might also throw up fascinating material. Most of us probably believe Putin holds some kompromat on Trump. In reality it is probably a matter of wishing he was like Putin (and Xi) and had their power.

It is fascinating to look at photos of the three of them together. In most Putin and Xi have slight smiles – the sort you have when you know those you are smiling about don’t know what you are really thinking.

By the way – the taxation policies Krugman recommends for the US should also be seriously considered in Australia if the Albanese Government could find some backbone and courage.