WASHINGTON — Lawmakers return to the Capitol this week facing a deadline to avoid a federal government shutdown as Democrats show no signs of relenting on priority agenda items despite surging Republican opposition.
Republicans said Democrats continue to pursue their agenda as if the midterm elections, in which the GOP gained control of the House and gained seats in the Senate, did not happen.
Republicans will not have their enhanced numbers until the new Congress convenes in January. But GOP opposition in the Senate will be fortified when Mark Kirk of Illinois is sworn in as expected Monday.
The prospect is for a standoff on core issues in this lame-duck session, including extension of the tax cuts passed during the George W. Bush administration. Congress could remain in session until days before Christmas.
President Barack Obama expects to meet with congressional leaders from both parties Tuesday evening to chart a path forward.
“The president is committed to sitting down and dealing openly and honestly with Republican leaders,” said deputy press secretary Bill Burton.
Republicans want to extend the tax cuts permanently for all households, including those with incomes beyond $250,000. Democrats have held firm on extending cuts only to those with incomes below that amount, saying the country cannot afford the additional $700 billion cost of tax breaks for the wealthy.
Votes are expected on both scenarios, though neither is expected to pass. Obama has suggested a willingness to compromise.
Even relatively popular bipartisan measures have run into opposition in the aftermath of the midterm elections.
When Congress returns Monday, the Senate is expected to vote on the long-stalled Food Safety Modernization Act, which has widespread support, but not before considering a list of Republican-led amendments. The act would increase agricultural inspections and require enhanced industry record-keeping.
Among the amendments is a largely unrelated measure to ban all earmarks, specially directed spending items lawmakers send to their home states.
This week’s schedule
Monday: Lawmakers open the lame-duck session. Republican Mark Kirk of Illinois will be sworn in to the Senate.
Tuesday: President Barack Obama expects to meet with congressional leaders from both parties.
Wednesday: Report due from Obama’s deficit reduction commission.
Thursday: Senate hearings begin on a Pentagon report on repealing the ban on gays’ serving openly in the military.
Friday: Existing measures expire to continue funding the federal government. Congress could consider an extension of one or two weeks to avoid a shutdown.
