Summary
Congress returns from its break with a priority to prevent a government shutdown. Republicans need to work with Democrats to agree on a spending plan. Other issues include Senate nominations and potential sanctions on Russia.
Key Facts
- Congress needs to pass a short-term spending measure by September 30 to avoid a government shutdown.
- Republicans require some Democratic votes for the spending measure to pass.
- Senate discussions might include changing rules to push through nominee confirmations.
- Republicans rescinded approximately $9 billion in foreign aid and public broadcasting funds.
- President Trump’s administration aims to block an additional $4.9 billion in foreign aid.
- Legislation proposing sanctions on countries buying resources from Russia has wide support in the Senate.
- Senator Lindsey Graham advocates for these sanctions as a response to Russia's actions in Ukraine.
