Congress reconvenes in Washington this week after its August recess, facing a critical deadline to fund the government and avoid a potential shutdown by the end of September. Lawmakers are also renewing calls for the Justice Department to release all files related to Jeffrey Epstein.

The government funding issue is pressing, as Congress must ensure funding is in place by September 30. While both the House and Senate passed a few funding bills before the break, they remain divided on funding levels. It is unlikely that all 12 appropriations bills will pass through both chambers, which means lawmakers will likely need to rely on a short-term funding measure to keep the government operational.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer faced scrutiny from his party during the last funding battle in March. After initially opposing a GOP plan that increased defense spending while cutting non-defense spending, he ultimately supported the measure to prevent a shutdown. This time, Democratic leaders are proactively engaging in discussions about funding. Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries recently called for a meeting with their Republican counterparts to address the funding issue.

In a letter to Senate Majority Leader John Thune and House Speaker Mike Johnson, the Democrats emphasized the need for bipartisan cooperation, stating, "the government funding issue must be resolved in a bipartisan way. That is the only viable path forward." However, the letter did not seem to initiate a collaborative effort. Former President Trump commented on the potential meeting, suggesting it might be a waste of time, as he believes Democrats rarely approve anything.

Additionally, Democrats have expressed concerns over the White House's attempts to rescind previously appropriated funds, including nearly $5 billion in foreign aid. This maneuver, known as a pocket rescission, has drawn bipartisan criticism as an unlawful action. Schumer stated, "Today's announcement of the Administration's plan to advance an unlawful 'pocket rescission' package is further proof President Trump and Congressional Republicans are hellbent on rejecting bipartisanship."

As the September 30 deadline approaches, tensions between the parties are escalating. Although Republicans hold majorities in both chambers, they will need at least seven Democratic votes in the Senate to pass any funding measures. Some Democrats, including Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin, have suggested allowing a government shutdown to protest Trump's policies, arguing that the traditional norms of governance no longer apply.

In addition to the funding battle, Congress is also expected to address changes to the Senate nomination process. Following a contentious nominations period in July, Senate Democrats have been delaying confirmations of Trump's nominees. Schumer criticized the White House for abandoning a deal that would have facilitated the approval of nominees in exchange for the release of appropriated funds.

Senate Republicans are now considering changes to the confirmation rules to expedite the process. Senator John Barrasso stated, "Senate Republicans are determined to confirm Mr. Trump's qualified nominees one way or another."

Among the nominees awaiting confirmation is E.J. Antoni, who has been nominated to lead the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Trump announced this nomination after firing the previous commissioner due to a disappointing jobs report. Antoni's nomination may face scrutiny regarding his qualifications and previous comments about the jobs report.

The Senate is also set to consider Stephen Miran for a position on the Federal Reserve's Board of Governors. Trump recently nominated Miran after the resignation of Adriana Kugler. Democrats on the Senate Banking Committee have called for a delay in the confirmation process, seeking oversight hearings related to Trump's recent actions regarding the Fed.

Additionally, Trump is pushing for a crime bill aimed at federalizing the Metropolitan Police Department in Washington, D.C. He has indicated plans to request Congress for long-term extensions to maintain control over D.C.'s police and has proposed a $2 billion funding package to improve safety and infrastructure in the capital. However, any such measures will require bipartisan support in the Senate.