Congress returns for a crowded lame-duck session after Democratic gains leave Republicans with one final window on funding, the debt limit and Hegseth.

House Republican Thomas Massie is forcing a floor vote on Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s impeachment that is expected to pass in the outgoing chamber. Leadership races and government funding deadlines dominate the agenda. Stephen Miller has begun work as the new White House chief of staff.

https://www.cnbc.com/2026/11/09/congress-returns-government-funding-pete-hegseth-debt-limit.html
https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2026/11/09/congress-returns-lame-duck/

Thomas Massie files eight articles of impeachment against Hegseth

Massie says Hegseth violated the War Powers Resolution by conducting military operations in Iran for more than 90 days without congressional authorization. The articles also accuse him of abusing his office, retaliating against critics and violating laws governing civilian casualties. House rules require action within two legislative days after the privileged resolution is filed. Democrats are expected to support it, and Massie says he believes he can win over enough Republicans. Speaker Mike Johnson could instead move to table the resolution.

https://massie.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395863

Congress faces December 11 funding deadline

The current funding extension expires December 11, leaving lawmakers roughly a month to reach an agreement or pass another temporary funding bill. The Pentagon authorization bill, FISA Section 702 reauthorization, the expired Farm Bill and permitting reform are also on the agenda. The debt ceiling is being discussed ahead of a projected 2027 borrowing deadline, but it is not the immediate shutdown deadline.

https://abcnews.com/amp/Politics/congress-returns-crowded-lame-duck-session-hegseth-impeachment/story?id=137918357

Republican leadership contests begin

Republicans are preparing to choose their next leaders after losing control of both chambers. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise and Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan are competing for the party’s top House leadership position, while Senate Republicans are preparing to choose their next leader. Incoming lawmakers are also beginning orientation ahead of taking office in January.

https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2026/11/09/what-expect-congress-this-week/