Lawmakers returned to Washington for a six-week lame-duck session
Lawmakers returned Monday for a six-week lame-duck session, with Democrats set to take control of both chambers on Jan. 3, 2027. Congress must extend federal funding before it expires Dec. 11 to avert a shutdown and pass the annual defense policy bill by year-end. CNBC reported Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faces a vote on articles of impeachment.
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Lawmakers returned to Washington on Monday for a six-week lame-duck session with a crowded agenda, after Democrats won control of both chambers in the midterm elections. The transfer of power is set for Jan. 3, 2027.
The immediate priority is extending federal funding, which expires Dec. 11; without action, the government could shut down. Lawmakers also face a year-end deadline to pass the National Defense Authorization Act, the annual Pentagon policy bill. ABC30 Fresno reported that disputes over funding for the war in Iran could come to a head as that deadline approaches.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faces a vote on articles of impeachment as Congress returns, CNBC reported; the report did not specify the chamber. The Senate is expected to consider a bipartisan permitting reform bill and confirm Trump administration nominees, with Republicans seeking to advance as many confirmations as possible before Democrats take control, CBS News reported.
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Reporting behind this story
- The Hill — Pete Hegseth stares down impeachment push as Congress returns
- CBS News — Congress returns for lame-duck sprint after bruising midterm losses for GOP
- CNBC — Congress returns Monday to government funding, debt limit debates
- PBS News — WATCH LIVE: House returns to Washington after blowout election for Democrats
- National Public Radio — Congress is coming back to Washington. Here's what to expect : NPR
- The Washington Post — Republicans have one last shot to pass their agenda after losing Congress
- ABC30 Fresno — Congress returns for crowded lame-duck session as Hegseth impeachment, government funding deadline loom