The return of Congress from its July Fourth recess is marked by a sense of urgency and uncertainty. The sudden passing of Senator Lindsey Graham from South Carolina has left a significant void, further complicating an already packed legislative agenda. With Senator Mitch McConnell’s continued absence, Republicans are facing tighter margins and a host of pressing issues.
The legislative to-do list is extensive. Among the top priorities is the confirmation hearing for President Trump’s nominee for attorney general, Todd Blanche. However, with Graham’s passing, the path forward for Blanche’s confirmation is uncertain, given the existing concerns among some Republicans. Additionally, Jay Clayton, Trump’s nominee for the top intelligence chief, is scheduled to appear before another Senate committee for his confirmation hearing.
The Impact of Senator Graham’s Passing
Senator Graham’s role as the chairman of the Senate Budget Committee was pivotal. His absence will require the committee to recalibrate its plans, particularly for the annual defense policy bill, which Graham was instrumental in advancing. His passing also leaves a significant gap in foreign policy discussions, especially concerning the Iran war and the funding and oversight related to it.
One of the immediate concerns is the Russia sanctions bill. Graham had announced that the White House had signed off on the bill and expressed optimism about finding a formula to end Russia’s war with Ukraine. Texas GOP Congressman Michael McCaul has expressed determination to rename the bill in Graham’s honor and start moving it forward this week.
The SAVE America Act and Trump’s Influence
The Republicans’ agenda was already at a standstill before the recess due to President Trump’s proposal for the SAVE America Act, a voting bill that would require proof of citizenship and photo ID to vote. The act has faced strong opposition from Democrats and some Republicans, and it was already going nowhere in the Senate due to lack of votes. Trump’s insistence on the act has derailed other legislative efforts, including the cancellation of the signing ceremony for landmark housing legislation that passed with bipartisan majorities.
Trump’s involvement in congressional plans remains a significant factor. On NBC’s ‘Meet The Press,’ Trump mentioned that Graham had called him about the SAVE America Act hours before his death. This highlights the close relationship between the two and the potential impact of Graham’s passing on Trump’s legislative priorities.
The Path Forward for the Republican Party
The vacancy left by Graham’s passing also triggers a special primary election to fill his spot on the ballot for the next U.S. Senate term. Candidates will have a week beginning July 21 to declare their intent to run. Potential contenders include Reps. Nancy Mace and Ralph Norman, who have expressed interest in the special election. The outcome of this election could have significant implications for the Republican Party’s prospects in the midterm elections.
As Congress navigates these challenges, there is hope for a new sense of unity to get all these priorities done as the midterms loom. However, the path forward is fraught with uncertainties, and the impact of Graham’s passing will be felt for some time.
