Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has outlined a long list of priorities for lawmakers as they return to Washington, including the impeachment trial of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, aid to Ukraine, and funding for the reconstruction of Baltimore’s Key Bridge. Schumer emphasized the importance of bipartisanship and compromise in order to make progress and get things done. However, tensions remain high in the House due to a dwindling Republican majority and a possible attempt to oust Speaker Mike Johnson.
The impeachment trial of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas is set to head to the Senate after being transmitted by House impeachment managers. This will mark the first time in nearly 150 years that a Cabinet secretary has been impeached. While the Senate is required to convene as a court of impeachment, the Democratic majority is expected to move quickly to quash the effort, which could trigger intense criticism from the right.
Funding for Ukraine and other U.S. allies is expected to be a key issue in the House upon lawmakers’ return to Washington. Johnson has pledged to take on the issue following a funding fight that wrapped up before Congress’ recess. The Senate previously approved a supplemental funding package that included aid for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, but Johnson blocked the legislation from moving forward in the lower chamber. Schumer has put pressure on Johnson to pass the supplemental package and is confident it will pass the House if brought up for a vote.
Johnson faces a potential threat of being ousted from the speakership over his decision to work with Democrats to fund the government last month, a move that many conservatives opposed. Although a motion to vacate has been filed by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, it has not gained steam among other House Republicans yet. Without substantial concessions, Johnson may have to rely on Democrats to pass aid to Ukraine, which could further jeopardize his speakership.
Lawmakers also aim to address other priorities in the near future, including the reauthorization of a key provision of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, House-passed tax legislation, rail safety bills, and cannabis banking legislation. Schumer highlighted the opportunity to make progress on bipartisan bills that enhance national security, promote innovation, expand the Child Tax Credit, address the fentanyl crisis, and more. The coming weeks and months will be critical for Congress as they work to address these pressing issues.
