2025 Washington Insights Review

As a valued participant in this year’s Washington Insights Review by Penta Insiders, we’re excited to share with you an exclusive, embargoed first look at the data you helped shape.

We’ll be sharing the full report publicly in June, but as part of our community of research contributors, you’re receiving priority access to these early insights. Please note that these findings are being shared with you on an exclusive and embargoed basis ahead of their broader circulation later this month.

Here’s what we’re seeing from the Hill to the Executive Branch:

🔍  AI Optimism Takes Off Led by GOP Staffers

81% of Republican congressional staffers believe AI will positively impact their daily work in the next year, compared to just 52% of Democrats. Overall, 72% of respondents expect a positive impact from AI, signaling widespread openness to innovation across Washington.

⚖️  Split Decision: Divided Government Predicted for 2026

42% of congressional respondents expect a Democratic House and Republican Senate following the midterms, a scenario favored across party lines. While 54% foresee Democrats retaking the House, 66% say Republicans will keep or win the Senate. Only 12% expect full Democratic control.

⏳  Senate Standoff: Filibuster Abolition Splits Washington

Policymakers are evenly split: 45% believe the filibuster will be abolished by 2026, while 44% disagree. Congressional Republicans are the most confident in change, 60% say it’s likely, including one-third who say it’s “very likely.”

💰  DOGE Faces Doubts: Most Say $1T Cut Won’t Happen

Skepticism is high. 67% say the DOGE will fall short of its $1 trillion spending cut goal. Among Republicans in Congress, 55% say the effort will fall short, just 11% overall believe the goal will be exceeded.

🏛️  Engagement in D.C. Seen as Effective by Policymakers, Less So by the Private Sector

While 84% of Congressional staffers and 76% of executive branch members view private-sector engagement in Washington as effective, only 61% of private-sector respondents share that perception.

Thank you again for your participation and insights. We look forward to sharing the full report with you in June.