Posts tagged August recess

Why the Senate GOP Is Choosing Confirmation Gridlock

Senate Republicans could allow President Trump to use recess appointments to fill vacancies and free up scarce floor time. The procedure is available. Republicans control both chambers. The question is why they prefer not to use it.

Congress, Constitution, Presidency, SenateJames WallnerAugust 21, 2026Donald Trump, Confirmation Process, recess appointments, advice and consent, Judicial Nominations, civilian nominations, Ron Johnson, John Boozman, Jim Justice, Jim Banks, August recess, pro forma sessionsComment

Senate Can Act When It Wants to

The Senate’s marathon session before the August recess demonstrated that senators can overcome obstruction when they decide unfinished business must be completed. Republicans could have approached the SAVE America Act the same way.

Congress, SenateJames WallnerAugust 12, 2026adjournment, August recess, continuing resolution, obstruction, politics of effort, Legislative Reorganization ActComment