Late-night votes are an age-old pressure tactic for congressional leaders in both major political parties. Yet overnight sessions have become increasingly common in Congress as the House and the Senate struggle to govern. Lawmakers say it's a symptom of a broken Congress that often has to resort to extreme measures to pass major legislation and is often careening from one crisis to the next. In just the last few weeks, Congress has done much of its work in the middle of the night, leading to confusion and chaos in both chambers. Republican Sen. Kevin Cramer of North Dakota says, "The dysfunction is getting worse."
The Republican-led Senate has rejected the latest Democratic attempt to halt President Donald Trump's war in Iran. The Senate on Wednesday turned aside a resolution that would require the U.S. to withdraw forces from the conflict until Congress authorizes further action. It was the fourth time this year the Senate has voted to cede its war powers to Trump in a conflict that Democrats say is illegal and unjustified. Republicans say they will keep faith in Trump's wartime leadership, for now, citing Iran's nuclear capabilities and the high stakes of withdrawal. But GOP lawmakers are also anxious for the conflict to end.
By STEPHEN GROVES and JOEY CAPPELLETTI Associated Press
Resignations came quickly this week from two congressmen accused of sexual misconduct toward staff members. Yet for many of the women of Capitol Hill, the moment of accountability was years in the making — and far from enough. Reps. Eric Swalwell, a California Democrat, and Tony Gonzales, a Texas Republican, both made announcements within hours on Monday afternoon that they would be stepping down from Congress. Yet some congresswomen said that the pair of resignations took too long and only showed that Congress must do more work to rid Capitol Hill of sexual predators.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris says she's actively considering another presidential bid. She made the comments on Friday during the National Action Network's annual convention, where more than a half-dozen Democratic 2028 presidential prospects appeared hoping to make inroads among Black voters. Host Al Sharpton asked Harris directly if she was gong to run again for president in 2028. Harris responded, "I might. I'm thinking about it." The Democrats' next presidential primary season won't really begin until after November's midterm elections, but this week's conference is showcasing a collection of Democrats already jockeying for position in what should be a crowded competition. Harris drew a standing ovation and the largest crowd of any other 2028 prospect at this week's convention.
