Republicans Doubt Major Lame-Duck Agenda With Just 24 Legislative Days Left
Updated
Updated · POLITICO · Oct 13
Republicans Doubt Major Lame-Duck Agenda With Just 24 Legislative Days Left
1 articles · Updated · POLITICO · Oct 13
Summary
Republicans returning after the midterms see little chance for major lame-duck wins, with only 24 legislative days, uncertain attendance and possible power shifts clouding the session.
Dec. 11 funding, the annual defense bill, and reauthorizations for farm, transportation and surveillance programs top the must-pass list, but each is tangled in partisan disputes that could force another short-term stopgap.
Bipartisan priorities such as energy permitting and college sports legislation could also slip if Democrats win a chamber and demand more influence over final deals.
GOP-only ambitions look even shakier: John Thune has said another reconciliation bill is mathematically difficult, dimming hopes for new defense money, voting restrictions and a debt-limit increase through Trump's term.
Leadership fights and side battles could further drain time after Nov. 9, including a forced House vote on impeaching Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and potential GOP turmoil if Democrats flip the House.