WATCH LIVE: House returns after August recess to tackle stopgap spending bill and more

Washington lawmakers returned to their Capitol on Monday, with a brief agenda focused on a stopgap spending bill. This legislation aims to fund the federal government through early December, potentially averting a shutdown before the midterm elections. Speaker Mike Johnson emphasized the urgency of passing the bill, stating, "We’ve got to make sure this government gets funded and we don’t have another Democratic shutdown."

Election season is underway, so lawmakers are also expected to vote on measures to strengthen the GOP's messaging strategy. A resolution condemning socialism is among these proposals, intended to contrast Democratic Party beliefs with those of socialist candidates who have gained political traction in recent years. However, some House Democrats oppose the bill, citing concerns about potential abuse of the legislation's powers.

The return to Washington also brings renewed attention to lawmakers' conduct, as the House will consider a recommendation from the House Ethics Committee to censure Rep. Chuck Edwards for his inappropriate behavior toward two female aides. Edwards denies the allegations, arguing that the committee's findings are overly severe. A vote to censure, while not equivalent to expulsion, would register the House's strong disapproval of Edwards' actions.

In other developments, the short-term funding bill underwent some modifications in the Senate, making it more favorable to Democrats. The revised legislation delays a proposed rule giving political appointees greater control over federal grant distribution. Additionally, it includes language to prevent the administration from transferring funds to the Border Patrol.

However, a provision delaying a ban on intoxicating hemp THC products has drawn criticism from many GOP lawmakers. As a result, GOP leaders are likely to prioritize this issue during the House vote.