September 16, 2025


Capitol Agenda: GOP Readies Weekend Legislative Push Amid Security and Health Care Debates

Republicans are gearing up for a bustling weekend as they aim to advance a stopgap funding bill that includes new provisions for member security, a move underscored by the recent assassination of Charlie Kirk. The GOP’s plan involves extending a pilot security program for members when they are in their districts, with proposed additional funding between $30 to $50 million. This decision follows a promise to address the heightened security concerns during Tuesday’s House GOP conference meeting, chaired by Admin Committee Chair Bryan Steil (R-Wis.).

“I get it’s going to cost a lot of money, but funerals aren’t cheap either and we need to have some protection for certain members,” expressed Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.) to reporters, emphasizing the urgency of the funding.

The House is expected to reveal the Continuing Resolution (CR) text by late Tuesday, setting up a potential vote by Friday. This tight schedule pushes the Senate to possibly extend their sessions into the weekend to meet Majority Leader John Thune's goal of concluding before the upcoming recess. However, this depends largely on Democratic cooperation, which remains uncertain.

In parallel, GOP senators are shaping legislation to extend expiring subsidies under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) with policy adjustments aimed at garnering Republican support. This legislative effort is critical as Republicans recognize the political repercussions of increased insurance premiums starting January 1. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) noted his involvement in refining the bill's language to ensure its effectiveness.

Meanwhile, Democrats are poised for negotiations, hoping to broaden the discussion to include an extension of the ACA subsidies. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries have not specified demands but are advocating for a bipartisan approach to address issues stemming from the previous administration's health care policies.

On the sidelines, FBI Director Kash Patel is scheduled for a rigorous congressional review regarding the bureau’s handling of high-profile cases, including the Kirk assassination. Additionally, the Senate will revisit the debate on rolling back tariffs imposed under the Trump administration, an initiative led by Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.) and supported by both parties.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) also plans to spotlight unconventional topics like weather manipulation through her Oversight subcommittee, focusing on cloud-seeding and solar geoengineering.

With a packed legislative and oversight agenda, Capitol Hill is braced for a series of intense discussions and decisions that could significantly impact national security and health care policies.