Democratic House leader Hakeem Jeffries recently met with Jared Kushner, son-in-law and former senior advisor to President Donald Trump, in a development suggesting that key players close to the president may be preparing for a potential shift in congressional power. With the midterm elections less than three months away, this meeting hints at the expectation that Democrats could gain control of at least one chamber of Congress. The interaction reportedly served as a catch-up between the two, who had collaborated on issues during Trump’s first term.

Although Jeffries did not directly address the meeting, he emphasized Democrats’ commitment to tackling the affordability crisis and signaled a willingness to cooperate with Republicans on transformative policy changes, but only on Democratic terms. The discussion between Jeffries and Kushner also reportedly touched on key areas of potential bipartisan agreement such as housing, immigration, and affordability. Kushner has remained influential in Trump’s global negotiations and political strategies despite not holding a formal government role after the 2024 election.

The timing of the meeting underscores the increasing chances that Republicans may lose their slim majority in Congress this November, with Democrats currently leading Republicans in national generic ballot polling by about six points. Should Democrats secure control of the House or Senate, Jeffries is expected to become Speaker of the House. This shift would likely trigger extensive investigations into the Trump administration and complicate legislative efforts that face opposition, such as raising the debt ceiling.

House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed confidence in Republicans maintaining their majority, describing Kushner as a pragmatic figure who is “hedging his bets.” Nevertheless, he warned that Republican voters will turn out strongly to preserve control. As the midterms approach, this behind-the-scenes contact between top Democrats and a key Trump adviser provides an intriguing glimpse into the interplay and strategic positioning occurring ahead of the critical November elections.