Republicans seek short-term funding bills as Congress prepares to adjourn
In the weeks before Democrats assume control of both chambers, Republican leaders plan to pass a continuing resolution to keep the government funded and address pending defense and impeachment measures.
Republicans returning to Washington this week face a narrow window to act before Democrats take control of the House and Senate in January. With the current funding measure set to expire on Dec. 11, lawmakers are expected to approve another short-term continuing resolution to avoid a government shutdown, as the full appropriations process lacks sufficient bipartisan support.
Legislators also must address the National Defense Authorization Act, which this year is stalled by debate over the ongoing conflict in Iran. President Trump has noted that public opposition to the war contributed to his party's electoral losses.
In the House, Republican Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky is poised to introduce an impeachment resolution against Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, alleging insufficient congressional consultation on the military campaign.
Democrats, anticipating their upcoming majority, are unlikely to negotiate on major proposals such as the Protect College Sports Act, which would change rules on athlete compensation, or a bipartisan energy-permitting reform. With slim majorities in both chambers, attendance and cohesion could pose additional challenges for the outgoing Congress.