politics
‘I’m not grouchy, I’m just optimizing’: Thom Tillis doesn’t want to hear he’s not doing enough to challenge Donald Trump
To hear Thom Tillis tell it, there was a world where he might not have decided to retire from the US Senate. At least not in that exact moment.
TL;DR
- Thom Tillis is nearing the end of his term in the US Senate and has become more outspoken in criticizing President Trump's administration.
- Tillis views his criticism, particularly of Trump's staff, as a strategic effort to 'optimize' outcomes and protect Trump's legacy, rather than personal attacks.
- The senator feels liberated from reelection pressures, allowing him to be more productive and vocal in his final year.
- Tillis has used his senatorial influence on nominations and legislation, such as the Lumbee Fairness Act and blocking Fed chair nominees.
- He maintains a working relationship with Trump, texting him recently, and believes his approach is to help the President succeed, not alienate him.