With just under a month until Election Day, an eerie quiet is settling over Washington as both parties zero in on the same goal: winning. Check out some highlights for the weeks ahead, including what to watch post-Election Day, as well as our most recent versions of our Senate and House musical chairs documents and “Congressional laundry list.”
Read MoreThere’s been no rest for the weary this week in Washington as we careen towards deadlines for a vote on the bipartisan infrastructure bill, two fiscal cliffs, and other key expirations. Here are our latest insights on infrastructure and reconciliation; the CR, debt limit, and appropriations; and other legislative activity.
Read MoreIt’s been a crazy week in Washington and things are only going to get busier. Here’s our weekly update on infrastructure and reconciliation; the CR, debt limit, and appropriations; and other legislative priorities.
Read MoreTo date, there seems to be little dialogue between the “big four” authorizers and appropriators and House and Senate leadership aimed at reaching consensus on defense priorities and the related topline spending levels. Ultimately, Washington must consider two choices: will it go its usual route where the Pentagon, Congress, and the White House negotiate over the politics of how much taxpayer money should be spent on this or that? Or will the federal government pursue a comprehensive evaluation and reconsideration of the nation’s defense strategy?
Read MoreAs the COVID-19 outbreak and related restrictions continue, the congressional calendar, which was already compounded to accommodate for 2020 elections, will get tighter. Responding to the public health crisis and addressing the immediate economic impacts of the pandemic remain congressional priorities. However, policymakers are also looking at longer-term recovery options, as well as improving U.S. preparedness to respond to future public health threats. Furthermore, prior to the spread of the virus in the U.S., Congress was already confronting a number of looming policy expirations this year.
Read MoreCommon knowledge may lead us to believe any hope of advancing policy in an election year is futile. Combine that trend with a divided Congress, a partisan atmosphere, and the imminent impeachment trial, and it’s easy to suggest 2020 will be a year for politics rather than policy. However, with a list of looming deadlines and the need to demonstrate the ability to not only investigate but also legislate, Congress is likely to have an active 12 months ahead.
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