Lame Duck Session: Congress faces deadline, defense bill, and impeachment vote
With funding expiring on December 11, lawmakers must pass a continuing resolution, resolve the National Defense Authorization Act, and vote on a measure against the Secretary of Defense.
By Elena Greco ·
The 119th Congress enters its final weeks with Republicans holding control of both chambers. The session concludes before the newly elected Democrats take office in the next term. Lawmakers must address several pressing issues before adjourning for the year.
Federal government funding expires on December 11. A stop-gap measure passed in early October is set to lapse at that time. Lawmakers expect to pass another short-term continuing resolution to keep the government operating. The standard process involves twelve separate appropriations bills, a task that requires more time and political capital than is currently available.
The National Defense Authorization Act faces political hurdles. This annual military funding package is entangled in the ongoing Iran war. A majority of Americans oppose the conflict, a sentiment President Donald Trump acknowledged as a factor in his party's losses during the midterms. The bill remains stuck in committee negotiations.
The House is expected to vote on an impeachment measure targeting Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. Representative Thomas Massie, a Republican from Kentucky, introduced the bill. Massie helped force the administration to release the Epstein files. The impeachment charges allege that the administration failed to properly consult with Congress regarding the military campaign.
Democrats are preparing to take control of both chambers in the new term. They are unlikely to compromise on major legislation during this final stretch. The Protect College Sports Act, which regulates athlete compensation, and a bipartisan energy permitting overhaul will likely wait for the new Congress to begin.
Attendance in both chambers may be low following last week's midterm elections. The Republican majorities in the House and Senate are slim. This thin margin complicates the ability to pass legislation, especially if members are distracted by winding down their offices or securing future employment.
Mike Ricci, a Republican strategist and former aide to Speakers John Boehner and Paul Ryan, noted that external factors may draw legislators back to Washington. These incentives include closing office operations, finding new work, and attending the White House Christmas party.
