Republicans still run Congress — for five more weeks. Monday’s return kicks off a lame-duck session where the outgoing majority has to keep the government open while its successors move in.
Why it matters
Federal funding runs out after Dec. 11, and lawmakers are “far from striking a deal,” ABC News reports. The 120th Congress, with Democrats controlling both chambers, is seated Jan. 3.
The big picture
- At least 109 House freshmen are incoming — the largest class since 1933, per ABC. At least 17 senators are leaving.
- Congress must also pass the annual defense bill, where fights over Iran war funding could come to a head, plus FISA Section 702 and the farm bill.
- Senate Republicans will try to confirm Trump’s remaining nominees before January.
Between the lines
The biggest headache for GOP leaders is a Republican. Rep. Thomas Massie, who lost his primary, is expected to reintroduce a privileged resolution with eight articles of impeachment against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth — possibly Monday, setting up a midweek showdown. Trump says he intends to keep Hegseth. Massie’s Epstein discharge petition aimed at AG Todd Blanche sits at 216 signatures, two short of forcing a vote.
What’s next
Speaker Mike Johnson won’t seek the GOP leader post; Steve Scalise and Jim Jordan face off Tuesday. House Democrats vote Nov. 18, with Hakeem Jeffries expected to win the speaker nomination. Alaska and Mississippi Senate races remain uncalled.
Our view
The lame duck is the most underrated stretch in American politics: losers in a hurry, winners not yet in charge, and big decisions on money, the military and nominees made under deadline. Watch whether it’s the man with nothing to lose — Massie — or the colleagues who still have two years with Trump who blink first.
Sergey Danilov
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