Congress Reconvenes Amid Shutdown Threat, Epstein Probe Escalates

WASHINGTON D.C. – The U.S. Congress reconvened today, September 2, 2025, following a six-week recess, immediately confronting a packed legislative agenda dominated by the looming government shutdown deadline and escalating scrutiny over the Jeffrey Epstein files. Lawmakers face a critical September as they race against an October 1 deadline to fund the government, with bipartisan talks yet to materialize between President Donald Trump and Democratic leaders.

The threat of a government shutdown is palpable, as Republicans, holding razor-thin majorities, struggle to pass individual appropriations bills. A stopgap continuing resolution appears likely, though a shutdown remains a credible possibility without a bipartisan breakthrough. Democrats are pushing for the restoration of Medicaid and rural hospital funding cuts in exchange for their votes.

Simultaneously, the Epstein saga is set to consume Capitol Hill. Today, House Oversight Committee members are meeting with survivors of Epstein’s sexual abuse. Tomorrow, September 3, Representatives Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna will hold a news conference with survivors, advocating for a discharge petition to force a floor vote on releasing the Epstein files, a move opposed by Speaker Mike Johnson. The GOP-led Oversight Committee has also subpoenaed the Epstein estate for documents by September 8, and former Labor Secretary Alex Acosta is slated to appear voluntarily on September 19 regarding his 2008 deal with Epstein. Chairman James Comer recently requested suspicious activity reports from the Treasury Secretary and subpoenaed high-profile individuals, including former President Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton.

Beyond these immediate crises, Congress will address several other contentious issues. Discussions are expected on President Trump’s efforts to federalize Washington D.C.’s police department, with his current authority set to expire soon, requiring congressional approval for extension. The Senate is also poised to resume debate on modifying rules for nominee confirmations, while foreign affairs, including the aftermath of Trump’s Alaska summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin and potential Russia sanctions, remain on the agenda. Additionally, the Oversight Committee continues its investigation into former President Joe Biden’s ‘cognitive decline,’ with more former officials expected for interviews in the coming weeks.

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