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Senate Agriculture Act Advances 12-11 After Party-Line Vote

By Drooid · Sep 17, 2026, 3:02 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Senate Advances Farm Bill

The Senate Agriculture Committee advanced the Agriculture Act of 2026 with a 12-11 party-line vote.
Senator Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) returned to the Senate and voted for the bill.
Democrats blocked the measure because a SNAP cost-sharing provision would shift excess error costs to states.
The bill needs 60 votes to overcome a filibuster, and programs expire September 30 if not passed.

Summary

McConnell Confirms Judge

McConnell confirmed Matthew Byrne for the Southern District of Ohio, his first Senate vote since June.
He returned to the chamber in a wheelchair after a June 14 fall that caused brief unconsciousness but no fractures.
He announced he will not seek reelection in 2026, making this term his final Senate service.
During his absence he missed dozens of votes, including the nomination of Todd Blanche for attorney general.

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Senate Advances Farm Bill

The Senate Agriculture Committee advanced the Agriculture Act of 2026 with a 12-11 party-line vote.
Senator Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) returned to the Senate and voted for the bill.
Democrats blocked the measure because a SNAP cost-sharing provision would shift excess error costs to states.
The bill needs 60 votes to overcome a filibuster, and programs expire September 30 if not passed.

1 / 2