As President-Elect Trump builds out his forthcoming second administration, the changing colors of the leaves and cooler temperatures aren’t the only signs of change this autumn. Washington is still reeling from some surprising picks, such as former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL-1) for Attorney General, Robert Kennedy Jr. for Secretary of Health and Human services, and Pete Hegseth for Secretary of Defense. But this Congress and administration aren’t done yet – there is still a lot to track in Washington. So, let’s get into it. Welcome to the Week Ahead!
The Administration
As President Biden plans for the end of his term (and pardons his last turkey), his administration is focused on immigration and reproductive health care. At this point, however, there is not much that they can do beyond messaging.
But that doesn’t mean everything is quiet on health care.
- On November 15, the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) published its intent to extend telemedicine flexibilities for prescribing of controlled medications through December 31, 2025.
- We are also waiting for the proposed Contract Year 2026 Medicare Advantage, Prescription Drug Benefit, and Medicare Cost Plan rule. Expect this one in December. Biden has made addressing concerns about prior authorization in Medicare Advantage a priority and this has also garnered bipartisan interest on Capitol Hill. So, this is definitely an issue to watch for in the new year.
The Senate
Senate Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) wants Congress to focus on wrapping up funding for fiscal year 2025. She noted that congressional leaders need to reach a topline spending agreement by November 22 in order for final bill language to be drafted, reviewed, and passed before the current funding deadline of December 20. Yes, even with all the effort so far, it takes that long! Can Congress come together this week or will they punt the decision once again?
One thing we do know is that the Senate will be working through a long list of judicial nominees. Senate Democrats want to fill as many openings as possible before the Senate and the White House come under GOP control. As of November 17, 2024, there are 45 total vacancies across the court system, with 15 nominations pending. How many can they get across the finish line?
The House
House Republicans held their leadership elections on November 13 with no big surprises. It looks like House Democrats are largely set to follow suit on November 19. Watch the race for chair of the Democratic Policy and Communications Committee as Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX-30) is challenging current chair Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-MI-6). Whoever ends up with the job will have their hands full in determining how the party will message for the next 2 years in the minority.
Another thing to watch for is if President-Elect Trump is done picking House members from the already thin GOP majority to serve in his administration. Even though the members he has picked so far are generally seen as being from safe GOP districts, special elections can be unpredictable.
In addition to counting their members, House GOP leadership is certainly going to be listening for any clues from President-Elect Trump about what he wants in terms of year-end government funding and appropriations deals. Any statements from Trump could have a major impact on how the House GOP decides to move forward.
There You Have it
If you can believe it, next Thursday is Thanksgiving! Check out this website if you are interested in reading up the history of the Holiday. Make it a great week!
