After Election, Congress Returns for Lame Duck Session

Following Donald Trump’s victory in the U.S. presidential election and Republicans’ gains in the Senate, the outlook for key legislative priorities shifts as Congress prepares for a brief lame-duck session before the 119th Congress convenes. With the GOP poised to wield more legislative influence in January, lawmakers face decisions on whether to wrap up pending bills or delay action until the new year. President-elect Trump’s success could potentially steer Congress’s end-of-year agenda, influencing decisions on the Farm Bill, government funding, and other high-profile items.

Lawmakers will reconvene on November 12, where the Senate and House leadership try to work out their agenda for the remainder of the year.  In the words of Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), “We are going to have to figure out how to finish up the year.” McConnell’s remarks hint at discussions with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), as they weigh remaining legislative priorities before the end of the year.

Some of the high-profile items include:

• Government Funding and Debt Limit: Funding for the federal government is set to expire on December 20. Republicans are considering completing appropriations now to give the incoming administration a “clean slate,” allowing the focus to shift to top priorities such as tax reform and immigration. Another option involves extending negotiations into the next Congress, where Republicans could push for greater spending cuts. The GOP may also attempt to raise the debt ceiling before Trump takes office, avoiding potential early confrontations over borrowing.
• Farm Bill: The Farm Bill remains a major piece of legislation that has yet to be resolved. Prior to the election, House and Senate committee leaders met to discuss the possibility of moving legislation during the lame duck. However, it is uncertain whether they will be able to reach agreement and complete a bill by the end of the year. If Congress chooses to defer action, an extension will be required to avoid disruptions to farm programs at the beginning of the next crop year in 2025.
• Defense Authorization and Disaster Aid: The bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which authorizes Pentagon funding and outlines defense priorities, is likely to pass. Aid for regions affected by recent hurricanes and floods, as well as the Key Bridge collapse, also enjoys bipartisan support and may see approval during the lame-duck session.
• Judicial Appointments: With Senate Democrats approaching their last opportunity to confirm judges selected by a Democratic president, Senate Majority Leader Schumer may allocate floor time to judicial appointments in what would likely be the party’s final chance for several years to influence the federal judiciary.

The Global Cold Chain Alliance (GCCA) extends congratulations to President Trump and all newly elected members of Congress and looks forward to fostering productive partnerships that advance the cold chain industry’s goals and strengthen food and agricultural supply chains across the country. GCCA is committed to working with policymakers on issues crucial to the industry’s success and the broader economy