The Senate is working to reach an agreement to expedite the consideration of several priorities as they approach their August recess. Senate Majority Leader John Thune stated that there are multiple issues pending, including government funding and the confirmation of Todd Blanche as attorney general. Thune noted the need for cooperation from Democrats to process these matters efficiently.
Key agenda items include a continuing resolution to fund the government beyond the midterm elections, a package of executive branch nominees, a Russia sanctions bill, a bipartisan college athletics measure, and the confirmation vote for Blanche. Thune has initiated steps to schedule votes on these priorities, but all 100 senators must agree to accelerate the process. He indicated that the Senate may remain in session until they address most of the outstanding items, which could delay the start of the five-week recess.
Thune expressed a desire to complete as much business as possible, anticipating a busy agenda when the Senate reconvenes in September. Without a deal, a spokesperson mentioned that the Senate's agenda could extend into the following week. Internal disagreements among Senate Republicans persist, particularly regarding the continuing resolution, with concerns raised by Sen. Ted Budd about provisions related to hemp products.
Additionally, the confirmation of Blanche remains uncertain, as GOP Sen. Susan Collins has announced her opposition, and with Sen. Mitch McConnell absent, Republicans can only afford to lose one more vote. The Senate's approach to a House-passed budget resolution, which is a priority for the White House, is also under discussion. This resolution is essential for initiating a reconciliation process for funding the Pentagon and farm aid without Democratic support. Thune acknowledged that support for the budget resolution among Republicans is unclear, and the path forward remains uncertain. The president has urged the Senate to stay in session until they act on the budget resolution or the SAVE America Act, leading Senate GOP leaders to consider their options.