As Congress reconvenes, the GOP is keen to spotlight the economic benefits of last year’s tax legislation, particularly with Tax Day looming. However, their message is muddled by a slew of scandals, the ongoing Iran conflict potentially escalating oil prices, a record-setting Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shutdown, and internal policy disputes.

The centerpiece of the Republican strategy is a news conference set for Wednesday, where House members will discuss the advantages of the previous year's tax cuts. President Donald Trump is also scheduled to champion the tax message with visits to Nevada and Arizona this week.

Amidst these promotional efforts, Congress faces pressing issues that threaten to divert attention from the tax discussions. A bipartisan push is underway in the House to expel members involved in various scandals. This includes Rep. Eric Swalwell, recently withdrawn from the California gubernatorial race due to allegations of sexual misconduct, and Rep. Tony Gonzales, who admitted to a controversial affair with a staffer who later died by suicide. The list extends to Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick and Rep. Cory Mills, both under scrutiny for different allegations.

Adding to the domestic turmoil are the ramifications of the ongoing war in Iran. The conflict has led to soaring gas prices and inflation concerns, with little hope for a stabilization of global energy markets, especially after Trump announced plans to blockade the Strait of Hormuz.

Congress is also set to debate Democratic-led war powers resolutions, reflecting growing unease within Republican ranks about the ongoing military actions in Iran. Meanwhile, the Senate will revisit the SAVE America Act, an elections bill with dim prospects for passage, and attempt to resolve the protracted DHS shutdown.

The House GOP shows reluctance to advance a Senate-approved DHS funding bill, opting to wait for Senate progress on a budget reconciliation bill fraught with complications. Speaker Mike Johnson is also under pressure to renew the Section 702 spy powers law before its imminent expiration, amid demands from hard-liners for amendments that would protect against government surveillance.

Other items on the congressional watchlist include Rep. Sara Jacobs’ bid for the vice chair of the Democratic caucus and a series of critical Appropriations subcommittee hearings. These hearings are expected to address various urgent topics, including the Iran conflict and the DHS shutdown, with key administration officials slated to testify.

As the week unfolds, the intersection of domestic policy battles, international crises, and internal party conflicts promises a complex agenda for the returning Congress, challenging their ability to maintain focus on their legislative priorities.