Congress is returning to Washington for its final weeks under Republican control, with lawmakers facing a deadline to keep the US federal government open before Democrats take control of both chambers in January.
Funding is due to expire on 11 December, when a temporary measure passed about a month before the midterm elections runs out. A further short-term bill, known as a continuing resolution, is considered the most likely way to prevent a shutdown.
Lawmakers are unlikely to complete the usual process of negotiating 12 separate appropriations bills, which would require more time and political agreement than currently appears available.
Congress faces disputes over defence and impeachment
The returning Congress must also find a way forward on the National Defense Authorization Act, the annual military funding package that is widely regarded as essential legislation.
This year, negotiations have become entangled in the politics of the Iran war. The conflict is opposed by a majority of Americans, which President Trump has acknowledged was a significant factor in his party losing power.
The House is also expected to vote on an impeachment effort against Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth. The measure, introduced by Republican Thomas Massie of Kentucky, contains several allegations, including that the administration failed to consult Congress properly over the military campaign.
Democrats are unlikely to make major compromises with only weeks remaining before they take control. Work on legislation including the Protect College Sports Act, which would introduce new rules on college athletes’ compensation, and a bipartisan overhaul of energy-permitting rules is therefore likely to wait until the new term.
The narrow majorities in both chambers could be further tested by attendance problems following what was described as a demoralising performance in last week’s midterm elections. That could make it harder to pass legislation during the short lame-duck session.
Mike Ricci, a Republican strategist and former aide to House Speakers John Boehner and Paul Ryan, said several factors could encourage legislators who are reluctant to return to Washington. These include closing their offices, looking for new jobs and attending the White House Christmas party.
