Two pivotal votes are slated for the House floor this Tuesday, presenting both major U.S. political parties with their own sets of challenges revolving around unity and accountability.

On the GOP Side: The House is poised to pass a resolution that would compel the Department of Justice (DOJ) to release files relating to Jeffrey Epstein, following a protracted standoff led by President Donald Trump and other Republican leaders to prevent the vote. In a turn of events, Trump declared on Monday his intention to sign the bill, paving the way for GOP members to support it. The vote is scheduled under suspension of the rules, which limits debate time and demands a two-thirds majority for passage.

The Senate now becomes the focal point. Republican Senators recently moved to force House Speaker Mike Johnson to forward the bill to the Senate. If Johnson fails to act, a standing discharge petition will prompt a repeat vote in the House. Although Senate GOP leadership has not confirmed a floor vote, Trump's endorsement might shift the landscape, potentially influencing the decision.

Speaker Johnson has expressed a desire for the Senate to modify the bill to better protect victims and whistleblowers. However, any amendments would necessitate another vote in the House, prolonging a matter many Republicans are eager to conclude swiftly.

On the Democratic Side: The House also faces a vote concerning a resolution that condemns Representative Chuy García (D-Ill.) for his abrupt retirement, which effectively ensured his chief of staff would succeed him. Initiated by Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-Wash.), the resolution forces Democrats to decide whether to support a longtime ally or denounce a contentious political maneuver.

García defended his decision on the House floor, prioritizing family considerations and hinting at the personal dilemmas that might face other members in the future. However, the move has not been well-received within the party. A Democratic House member, speaking anonymously, predicted significant support for the resolution, citing concerns over the timing of García's retirement. Representative Jared Huffman (D-Calif.) acknowledged his reluctance, stating, “Chuy García is a friend and a great guy. But I don’t like the optics of this.”

Additional Items on the Agenda: Meanwhile, GOP leaders are set to discuss strategies for addressing rising healthcare costs, amid concerns that Senate Republicans might outpace them with legislative proposals. Also on the docket is a hearing with Congressional Budget Office Director Phillip Swagel, providing House Republicans their first opportunity to critique the agency’s analysis of a major GOP bill enacted in July.

As lawmakers prepare for the Thanksgiving break, they also face a crucial week of negotiations on major defense policy legislation, aiming to secure a deal ready for a vote in early December.

This week in Capitol Hill is shaping up to be a crucible of political maneuvering, with both parties navigating the intricate dance of policy and public perception.