Congress returns from recess facing Oct. 1 government funding deadline

House and Senate Return to Session with Government Funding Deadline Looming
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Both the House and Senate are back in session after a summer recess, facing a busy fall and a deadline to fund the government by Oct. 1.
Democratic votes are crucial to pass any spending plan in the Senate, with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer facing criticism for his role in avoiding a shutdown in March.
President Donald Trump’s attempts to cancel allocated spending unilaterally have stalled negotiations, with Democrats hesitant to make a deal.
Senate Minority Leader Faces Criticism
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) faces criticism from the left after he caved and helped avoid a shutdown in March. (J. Scott AppleWhite / AP)
The Epstein files could complicate efforts to avoid a shutdown if related language is attached to spending bills, adding another layer of complexity to negotiations.
Senate Republicans are considering changes to streamline the confirmation process for nominees, accusing Democrats of delaying even uncontroversial appointments.
Focus on Public Health and Oversight

In September, the House Oversight Committee will continue to hear from former Biden administration officials about the cognitive abilities of the former president. (Fox News Digital)
The House Oversight Committee will focus on the cognitive abilities of former President Biden, while concerns about public health persist following staff changes at the CDC in August.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is set to testify in early September, with the hearing scheduled prior to the recent upheaval at the CDC.