Congress Faces Potential Shutdown, Epstein File Release, D.C. Crime Control Battles

As Congress returns from recess, lawmakers face a critical deadline to avert a government shutdown by September 30, with Senate GOP leaders favoring a short-term funding extension while conservatives and some in the Trump administration push for a full-year spending bill reflecting Republican priorities. President Donald Trump’s unilateral decision to claw back $5 billion in foreign aid has heightened tensions and eroded bipartisan trust, complicating negotiations. Concurrently, a bipartisan effort led by Reps. Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna aims to force a House vote on releasing Department of Justice files related to Jeffrey Epstein, creating additional pressure on GOP leaders. Senate Majority Leader John Thune and House Speaker Mike Johnson must maintain party unity amid these disputes, while Democrats signal readiness to play hardball, emphasizing the need for a bipartisan approach. The funding debate also involves decisions on reauthorizing expiring programs such as agricultural supports and community health centers. Overall, Congress faces a volatile September balancing government funding, Epstein file disclosures, congressional stock trading bans, and President Trump's policing agenda in Washington, D.C.