Lame-duck Congress faces funding deadline, Hegseth impeachment, and GOP leadership scramble

Key points

• House and Senate Republicans hold leadership elections Tuesday; Democrats follow in late November and early December.
• House Speaker Mike Johnson steps aside; Steve Scalise and Jim Jordan compete for minority leader. Hakeem Jeffries is poised to become Speaker.
• Senate Republicans face internal pressure to delay leadership elections to assess 2028 strategy after their losses.
• Government funding expires Dec. 11; Democrats hold leverage to block defense spending tied to the Iran war.
• Rep. Thomas Massie plans to introduce new articles of impeachment against Hegseth, with a House vote expected by Wednesday.
• Republicans debate a third reconciliation bill for defense funding, but face thin margins and Democratic opposition.

Background

The 2026 midterms delivered a historic Democratic victory, shifting control of both chambers. Prior to the election, Republicans had passed a stopgap funding measure to avoid a shutdown before the vote. The lame-duck session follows a period of intense conflict over the Iran war and defense spending, with Democrats now holding the power to block GOP priorities.

How outlets are covering it

CBS News emphasizes the leadership transition and the immediate funding deadline. CNN highlights the likelihood of Hegseth’s impeachment passing, noting Massie’s claim that support is 'far more likely' post-election. CNBC focuses on the strategic calculus, noting Democrats have little incentive to negotiate given their new majorities. The Washington Post stresses the logistical crunch, with Republicans urging colleagues to work through the holidays to confirm nominees and pass legislation before time runs out.

Why it matters

The lame-duck session determines the legislative and judicial landscape for the next two years. A government shutdown or failed defense funding could impact national security and domestic services. The impeachment of Hegseth signals a potential shift in executive accountability, while the outcome of reconciliation efforts will define the balance of power between the White House and a Democratic Congress.

What to watch

Leadership elections conclude in December. The House votes on Hegseth’s impeachment by Wednesday. Appropriations negotiations begin this week, with a hard deadline of Dec. 11. The Senate may advance the permitting bill and confirm nominees before the 120th Congress convenes on Jan. 3.