Senate eyes deal to leave for recess as agenda items pile up

The Senate is working to secure a deal to expedite the processing of a variety of priorities before their August recess. Senate Majority Leader John Thune disclosed on Thursday that there are several outstanding issues standing in the way, such as funding the government and confirming Todd Blanche as attorney general. Thune mentioned that there is still a lot of work to be done and that they will assess the level of cooperation from Democrats in expediting these matters.

The list of issues includes a continuing resolution to keep the government funded beyond the midterm elections, a package of executive branch nominees, a Russia sanctions bill, a bipartisan college athletics measure, and Blanche's confirmation vote. Thune has taken steps to advance votes on some of the priorities but requires the support of all 100 senators to move quickly.

Leaders aim to keep the chamber in session until they address the majority of the pending tasks. The pending business could delay the five-week August recess for senators. Thune expressed a desire to accomplish as much as possible before returning in September, when the focus would shift to a rushed election-day agenda. However, unresolved issues, particularly within the Republican conference, may prolong the legislative process.

GOP Sen. Ted Budd of North Carolina is attempting to remove language delaying a ban on certain hemp products, while questions remain about Blanche's confirmation prospects, with Sen. Susan Collins of Maine indicating she will vote against him. The Senate GOP faces a challenge in gaining support for Blanche's confirmation due to the absence of Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and the opposition of other potential defections like Senators Lisa Murkowski and Bill Cassidy.

Additionally, the Senate must navigate the House-passed budget resolution as a top priority, which could be initiated through a reconciliation process without Democratic support. The path forward on a third reconciliation package remains uncertain. Nonetheless, Senate GOP leaders are considering the options and threats from some GOP members to block the chamber's adjournment, prompting discussions on a potential resolution.