Republicans near consensus on summer Senate agenda amid lingering hurdles
Republican senators say progress is being made on a summer package that includes a spending bill, a hemp-product provision, and a Russia sanctions measure, but several items remain unresolved.
Republican senators indicated that negotiations are advancing on the Senate’s summer legislative slate following a meeting with Vice President JD Vance. Senate leaders are nearing a deal on the government spending bill, which may hinge on granting Sen. Ted Budd a vote to eliminate a postponement of a hemp-product ban. Senate Appropriations Chair Susan Collins highlighted the hemp issue as the remaining sticking point.
Lawmakers are also pushing a Russia sanctions bill that could narrow President Donald Trump’s authority to impose tariffs. Meanwhile, the GOP’s nominee package stalls, with attorney-general nominee Todd Blanche still short of a majority, and Democrats are not prepared to act on cryptocurrency reforms. Completing the college-sports legislation this week appears doubtful.
Why it matters
The outcome will shape federal spending, trade policy, and pending nominations before the Senate recess.
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