Senate workload shaves two weeks off August recess

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., decided Tuesday there are not enough days on the calendar to complete the GOP legislative agenda. He ordered lawmakers to remain in Washington, D.C., for the first two weeks of August to get their work done before taking their traditional summer break. After meeting with the Republican conference and Vice President Mike Pence, McConnell said he would release a new version of the GOP healthcare bill Thursday. He plans to schedule a vote on the new plan next week and start moving forward on other time-sensitive items. The Senate leader said the decision to delay the August recess is not just about healthcare because it’s just one of many pressing issues. Lawmakers also need to finalize a defense authorization bill to provide funding for U.S. troops, figure out a new federal debt limit, and make progress on filling key administration positions. Dozens of administration appointments are stuck in limbo awaiting Senate confirmation. For weeks, President Donald Trump has criticized Senate Democrats for obstructing the appointments, and McConnell said Tuesday “unprecedented obstructionism” from Democrats is a primary reason for extending the legislative calendar.