Tulsi Gabbard's Rising Influence Amid Syria Crisis and Intel Chief Nomination

As Congress races to conclude its session, key issues include passing the annual defense policy bill and a short-term government spending patch before funding expires on December 20. The House Rules Committee is preparing the defense bill for consideration, potentially relying on Democratic votes if conservatives block it. Meanwhile, new senators Adam Schiff and Andy Kim are joining, and the Senate is set to confirm more judges, nearing the number confirmed during Trump's first term. Additionally, Tulsi Gabbard, nominated for director of national intelligence, faces scrutiny over past meetings with Bashar al-Assad.