As the summer winds down, the United States Senate is confronting a demanding legislative agenda, aiming to pass an interim spending bill to prevent a government shutdown, confirm Attorney General nominee Todd Blanche, and potentially address other significant measures before its scheduled recess.
The current continuing resolution expires on October 1st, marking the start of the new fiscal year. To avert a shutdown, bipartisan lawmakers are working to pass a measure that would extend government funding through December 11th, pushing the deadline beyond the midterm elections. This temporary measure follows a similar stopgap bill approved by the House in July. In the previous year, a 43-day shutdown occurred after Senate Democrats withheld votes, protesting the omission of Obamacare subsidies from the Republican funding proposal. This time, Democrats have signaled their support, having previously voted to curb a filibuster on the funding bill with an 89-4 tally.
Despite the apparent consensus on government funding, the path forward for other legislative priorities remains uncertain. Senators are reportedly bewildered about the upcoming schedule, with many eager to return home to campaign. Among the key items on the Senate's agenda are a bill to sanction Russia, the confirmation of Todd Blanche as Attorney General, and potentially advancing parts of the SAVE America Act, which requires proof of citizenship to vote.
Confirming Blanche is a high priority for Republicans, but his nomination faces challenges. Some senators, including Thom Tillis and John Cornyn, have reportedly come around after receiving assurances regarding an anti-weaponization fund. However, with key absences and opposition from figures like Senator Susan Collins, Republicans can only afford to lose one more vote to secure his confirmation.
The SAVE America Act, a signature piece of former President Donald Trump's legislative agenda, faces significant hurdles. Senate Majority Leader John Thune has stated that the chamber lacks the necessary votes to pass the bill, which has been blocked twice before. "We don't have the votes to get rid of the filibuster. And we aren't flipping ten Democrats to vote for the SAVE America Act," Thune said. Former President Trump has urged lawmakers to cancel recess and pass the legislation, emphasizing its importance.
Another item on the docket is a bill to regulate college sports and address compensation for student-athletes. President Trump has expressed support for the plan, particularly after major athletic conferences signed off on the legislation. However, significant details still need to be worked out, and some senators, like John Kennedy, have noted that the bill remains dense and requires further deliberation.
Senators are navigating a complex legislative environment, attempting to balance pressing national needs with the demands of election campaigns. The coming days are crucial for determining which of these items will be addressed before the Senate adjourns.