The Senate concluded its summer session early Saturday morning, confirming Todd Blanche as the nation's 88th Attorney General and approving a bipartisan interim spending bill aimed at preventing a government shutdown in October. However, several significant legislative items remain unresolved as senators departed Washington.
Unfinished Business
The SAVE America Act, a priority for some Republicans, did not receive a vote. Advocates of the bill may use the Senate's adjournment as an opportunity to increase pressure on its opponents. While the Senate blocked a more narrowly focused voter ID bill, championed by Sen. Jon Husted, R-Ohio, in a test vote, the measure did succeed in putting Democrats on the record as opposing it. This tactical vote was seen as beneficial for Husted in his upcoming competitive race.
Another notable item left untouched was the proposed legislation to regulate money in intercollegiate athletics, known as the Protect College Sports Act. President Trump had publicly urged the Senate to remain in session to pass the bill, authored by Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, and Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash. Trump stated on Truth Social that the bill went far enough to address concerns, particularly regarding men competing in women's sports. Cruz indicated that the Protect College Sports Act would be a priority upon the Senate's return in September, though a vote has not yet been officially scheduled.
Efforts to regulate cryptocurrency also stalled due to significant differences among senators. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., has scheduled a procedural vote on cryptocurrency for September 15, indicating that the issue remains on the agenda.
Despite the packed agenda and a desire by some to finalize these measures before the recess, the Senate adjourned at 4:57 a.m. ET, leaving these key legislative battles for the fall session. The confirmation of Attorney General Todd Blanche and the passage of the interim spending bill were among the few major accomplishments before the adjournment.