U.S. Congress Returns After Midterm Elections: What Lawmakers Plan to Address Before 2027
The campaign signs are barely down, and Washington is already back at work. Congress returns after midterm elections with a five-week lame-duck session, a possible shutdown on the horizon and plenty of unfinished business.
Why This Lame-Duck Session Matters
The midterms produced a historic win for Democrats, who took control of both the Senate and House. But the new majority isn’t official yet. The 120th Congress will be seated on Jan. 3. Until then, Republicans still run the show. That in-between stretch is what Washington calls a “lame-duck” session.
The Shutdown Clock Is Ticking
Government funding is set to run out on Dec. 11. If lawmakers can’t strike a deal, parts of the government could close right before the holidays.
Democrats are feeling confident. Rep. Rosa DeLauro, the top Democrat on House Appropriations, has acknowledged Democrats would have more leverage after the midterms.
Defense, Farm and Tax Bills Are Also Waiting
The annual defense policy bill and the Farm Bill both stalled ahead of the midterms. Fox News also reports the list includes the debt ceiling, transportation infrastructure and a bipartisan tax package. The defense bill could get messy, since opposition to the Iran war and scrutiny of Pentagon leadership may complicate it.
Impeachment Talk and Leadership Fights
Politics won’t wait for January. Republican Rep. Thomas Massie has gathered 216 signatures on a petition, and the session is also overshadowed by a push to impeach Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Meanwhile, a handful of Senate Republicans, led by Sen. Ron Johnson, want to delay leadership elections. And President Trump is threatening to veto anything that doesn’t fit his agenda.
Explore the Political Shifts, Economic Pressures, and Social Debates Shaping America
What Happens If Democrats Control Congress?
Find out how a Democratic victory in the 2026 midterms could reshape Congress and US policymaking.
Why Is Control Of The Senate Uncertain?
Could Inflation Decide The 2026 Midterms?
Why Are US Gas Prices Staying High?
What Does The Log Cabin Decision Mean?
