"Congress Confronts Shutdown, Sequester, and Deepening Divisions in Critical January Session"

As the 2024 elections approach, Congress is grappling with internal and external crises, including government shutdown deadlines and contentious negotiations over border security and foreign aid for Ukraine and Israel. Partisan divisions are expected to intensify, complicating the legislative process. Senate negotiators are attempting to reach a deal that could face resistance in the GOP-controlled House, especially regarding Ukraine aid. House Speaker Mike Johnson is navigating a narrow majority and an impeachment inquiry into President Biden, adding to the challenges ahead. Congress must address the looming shutdown deadlines without resorting to a full-year stopgap funding measure, which leaders like McConnell find unacceptable.