Doug Jones' shocking victory over Republican Roy Moore in Alabama's special election on Tuesday night will deal a devastating blow to what's left of Donald Trump's agenda in 2018. It will also put Senate Republicans' majority in serious jeopardy beyond that. Jones is just one vote. But one vote in the Senate changes everything.
In the very near future, Jones' win probably can't stop Republicans from passing their tax bill. Jones will not be seated until the state of Alabama certifies his election, the deadline for which is Jan. 3. The Alabama secretary of state's office told me Tuesday that they expect to complete certification between Dec. 27 and 29. Senate Republicans are aiming to complete their tax bill before they leave for Christmas, with a final vote next week. Jones' win will only encourage them to wrap this up faster. Barring a collapse in conference negotiations, Jones will arrive too late.
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