Congress is set to return with a packed agenda, primarily focused on extending government funding, which is set to expire on December 11. Lawmakers will need to act quickly to either pass a continuing resolution or a full suite of appropriations bills to avoid a government shutdown.
The recent midterm elections have left Republicans with diminished power, as Democrats have gained a commanding majority in the House and could secure a significant presence in the Senate. This shift may reduce the incentive for Democrats to negotiate with Republicans on funding issues.
Additionally, the federal debt has reached $40 trillion, and there are calls from some lawmakers, including Senator Kevin Cramer, to raise the debt limit before Republicans lose control. However, Democrats may prefer to use the debt ceiling as leverage in the next Congress.
The Senate is also considering a permitting bill aimed at easing construction processes, but its future is uncertain given the recent electoral outcomes. The National Defense Authorization Act, which authorizes over $1 trillion in defense spending, faces challenges as well, particularly with ongoing concerns about military engagements.
Other legislative priorities include establishing federal rules for compensating college athletes and addressing congressional stock trading, both of which may encounter significant opposition. Overall, the new political landscape will likely complicate bipartisan efforts and influence the legislative agenda in the coming weeks