Story perspectives

GOP Senate Delays Recess, Funds Govt, Blocks OMB Rule

8/6/2026

Summary

Republicans Delay Recess

Senate Republicans will delay the August recess and plan to pass a continuing resolution before the recess.
Senate Republicans also intend to confirm over 70 judicial nominees appointed by U.S. President Donald Trump.
The Senate invoked cloture on 74 Trump nominees, including Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche.
Sen. John Thune (R-South Dakota) noted an 89-4 vote advancing a resolution to fund the government through Dec. 11.

Summary

Collins Blocks Rule

Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) wrote OMB Director Mick Vought requesting a longer comment period and changes to the grant-approval rule.
The OMB proposal would shift grant approvals to political appointees, drawing bipartisan criticism.
Biomedical researchers warned the rule could restrict essential scientific grant programs.
The Senate Appropriations Committee’s continuing resolution would fund the government through December 11, 2026, while blocking the OMB rule from taking effect.

History

Historical Context

In November 1995, a budget standoff between House Speaker Newt Gingrich and President Bill Clinton led Congress to miss a continuing resolution, triggering a 28-day federal shutdown. The episode showed how short-term continuing resolutions can postpone contentious budget decisions, a tactic Senate Republicans revived in 2024 to keep the government funded while confirming more than 70 Trump-appointed judges.

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Republicans Delay Recess

Senate Republicans will delay the August recess and plan to pass a continuing resolution before the recess.
Senate Republicans also intend to confirm over 70 judicial nominees appointed by U.S. President Donald Trump.
The Senate invoked cloture on 74 Trump nominees, including Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche.
Sen. John Thune (R-South Dakota) noted an 89-4 vote advancing a resolution to fund the government through Dec. 11.

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