Congress returns today for its lame-duck session with 32 days left before the current continuing resolution (H.R. 6500) expires on Dec. 11, 2026. Here is what’s new since the Nov. 6 update.
- Another short CR looks likeliest. Fox News (Nov. 9) quotes an unnamed House Republican expecting another stopgap running into February or March 2027, and cites Politico reporting that some Democrats could use the Iran war as leverage in spending talks. The same Republican argued no one, Democrats included, wants a shutdown. (Fox News via WFMD)
- Leadership races come first. Steve Scalise faces Jim Jordan for House GOP leader; John Thune is running unopposed (so far) for Senate minority leader; Hakeem Jeffries is expected to become Speaker in January. The winner of the House GOP race will help negotiate the funding bill. The same report cites a January debt-ceiling deadline.
- Shutdown “possible before the holidays.” Gray DC (Nov. 7) says Democrats, who take control when the 120th Congress is seated in early January, are unlikely to cooperate, while GOP leaders push the President’s priorities before the majority flips. The NDAA and farm bill are also on the agenda. (Gray DC via KY3)
- Defense: Iran-war funding language in play. Sen. Chris Murphy (D-CT) expects a CR into January or February and says he would seek language barring DoD funds from use in the Iran war once Democrats control Congress. (Asia Times / Common Dreams)
Snapshot: 0 of 12 bills enacted · 3 of 12 passed the House · 0 of 12 passed the Senate · Shutdown risk: Low · Next deadline: Dec. 11, 2026 (32 days).
Full bill-by-bill status: FY2027 Appropriations Tracker.
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