For nearly a decade, congressional Republicans have endured the relentless spotlight of uncomfortable media scrutiny—on everything from Donald Trump’s controversies to Kevin McCarthy’s leadership challenges. But this week, the tables turned. As Democrats found themselves besieged by reporters over questions about President Joe Biden and his embattled presidency, Republicans were basking in a rare moment of reprieve.
“It’s fucking awesome,” declared Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.), perfectly encapsulating the collective GOP sentiment.
The shift in attention was palpable. Even the most unassuming Democratic lawmakers were thrust into the media frenzy. Cameras swarmed the Capitol in search of soundbites, targeting figures like Rep. Mike Quigley (D-Ill.), who broke ranks to criticize Biden, and freshman Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas), who fiercely defended him.
“It’s almost like you feel left out,” joked Rep. Anthony D’Esposito (R-N.Y.), a freshman congressman from suburban Long Island. But the sentiment was short-lived. Most Republicans were relishing their unexpected liberation from the spotlight.
“When I walked into conference yesterday, there were only one or two cameras, instead of the usual thirty,” said Rep. Mike Flood (R-Neb.). “It’s just freeing, actually. It’s like being liberated.”
Even in the Senate, the dynamic was clear. One GOP aide quipped, “I could self-immolate in front of the Senate subway, and people would still walk past me to chase [Democratic Sen.] Martin Heinrich.”
For Republicans, the sight of Democrats grappling with awkward questions was more than just a relief—it was vindication. After years of being grilled over their own controversies, many couldn’t help but savor the spectacle.
“It’s so funny. I don’t think some of my Democratic colleagues have ever taken a tough question from a reporter,” said Rep. Nick Langworthy (R-N.Y.). “I see a lot of long faces in the elevator.”
Rep. Mace put it more bluntly: “They finally get to walk a day in Republican shoes. We deal with the deluge of reporters every single day, and it has been glorious to watch. Finally, the shoe is on the other foot.”
Others likened the moment to poetic justice. “It’s felt like being the oldest sibling who’s had to deal with everything, finally watching the youngest sibling cry over losing their iPhone for an hour,” said a senior Republican aide.
As the drama unfolded, some Republicans couldn’t resist offering unsolicited advice to their Democratic counterparts. “Keep Joe Biden right here,” urged Rep. Troy Nehls (R-Texas), wearing a Trump-themed tie and puffing on a cigar. “Jill, keep fighting for your husband, babe. Keep him in the race.”
Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), usually more measured, struck a note of feigned sympathy. “I know Joe Biden. I’ve known him for years. I don’t dislike him. I feel bad.” But Graham didn’t let his compassion cloud his political instincts. On social media, he framed Biden’s troubles as an advantage for Republicans, tweeting, “From a political point of view, President Biden’s commitment to stay in the race no matter what is very good news—not only for President Trump but for the entire down-ballot Republican team.”
Not all Republicans reveled in the moment. Rep. Doug LaMalfa (R-Calif.) adopted a more somber tone, referencing Speaker Mike Johnson’s call to “hug a Democrat today.” LaMalfa confessed he’d actually hugged a few. “It’s a sad situation,” he said. “Anybody can see he’s having a tough time. It’s not really humane at some level, but political considerations seem to have exceeded all of that.”
Despite this brief flicker of empathy, most Republicans remained focused on celebrating their unexpected reprieve. Watching Democrats squirm under the glare of media scrutiny felt, to many, like karmic justice.
“This is going to make for a great summer,” Flood said, flashing a grin.
For now, Republicans seem content to let the Democrats have their moment in the barrel. After years of relentless media scrutiny, they’re savoring the rare luxury of being left alone.
