WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate is now in recess for the midterm elections despite having a lot of big measures left to deal with.
In one of the final moments of the Senate before they break until mid-November was confirming Keith Sonderling as the new Labor Secretary. While it’s a win for Republicans, who want to finalize as many nominations as possible before the election, some members said the Senate still has a lot on their plate for when they return.
“We still have our national defense bill to complete and through,” said Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D- NY). “That legislation, I think, we need to hold the administration accountable on a number of issues. We also need to discuss AI and put a plan in place and we have some provisions in that defense bill that are important already on the issue of AI. We also have some unfinished work on a number of regulatory issues. I have a number of bills still in my special committee on aging where we want to create oversite on the generic industry.”
When the House and Senate return after the election in November before the new Congress’s term begins, they’ll be in what’s known as a lame duck session. Despite the name, the Brennan Center said lawmakers use this short period to resolve unfinished business from a regular session or deal with specific, urgent issues.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune told reporters when they get back after the elections, they could tackle a government funding bill, the farm bill and a permitting reform bill, which would speed up permitting reviews for new energy and infrastructure projects.
Until they return to Washington, Thune said Republicans and the President will be rallying to ensure they keep control of both chambers.
“The challenge is always voter turnout,” said Thune. “And in this case, you have a lot of voters out there who might not be inclined to get out and vote.”
Some election forecasters said Republicans will have an uphill battle to hold onto both chambers, especially in the House.
