Weekly Newsletter – Week of October 2, 2023

What’s happening in Washington, D.C.- Week of October 02, 2023

Headlines to Know: 

Congress avoids shutdown, extends lifeline to GOP Speaker in narrow escape

  • Congress narrowly avoids government shutdown by passing temporary funding bill until November 17. Democrats secure funding priorities, highlighting GOP internal discord between conservatives and extremist faction. Struggling GOP Speaker McCarthy relies on Democratic support, underscoring challenges in managing party unity. Despite the temporary solution, underlying chaos within Republican Party persists, raising concerns about future governance stability. 

Student Loan Payments resume amidst controversy and financial strain

  • Student loan payments restart for 28 million borrowers after a 3-year pause. Biden introduces a plan allowing missed payments but with accrued interest. Discontent and concerns rise, worsened by a potential government shutdown. Republicans criticize relief efforts, highlighting college cost issues. Borrowers face uncertainty, financial challenges, and pressure for additional relief. 

Other News to Know:

 

Trump faces fraud trail in New York: Denies wrongdoing amidst allegations.

  • Recently on The Washington Post, Former President Donald Trump is attending a civil trial in New York, where he and his company are accusing of fraudulently inflating, the value of his real estate empire. Trump, who denies any wrongdoing, faces a $250 million penalty and business operations restrictions in New York if found guilty.

 

This Week on Capitol Hill


Hearings of Interest: (All times EST)

 

  • Monday October 2, 2023
    •  House Committee on Rules | 4:00 PM (EDT) |  
  • Tuesday October 3, 2023
    •  Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Intellectual Property | 2:30 PM (EDT) | 
  • Wednesday October 4, 2023
    • Senate Judiciary Meeting | 10:00 AM (EDT) |Hearings to examine pending nominations. 
    • Senate Appropriations Meeting | 10:00 AM (EDT) |To receive a closed briefing on United States assistance to Ukrainian Air Defenses. 
    • Senate Foreign Relations Meeting | 10:00 AM (EDT) |Hearings to examine the BUILD Act reauthorization and Development Finance Corporation oversight. 
    • Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Meeting | 2:00 PM (EDT) | Hearings to examine CHIPS and science implementation and oversight. 
    • Senate Foreign Relations Meeting | 2:30 PM (EDT) |Hearings to examine security on the Korean Peninsula. 
    • Senate Veterans Affairs Meeting | 3:00 PM (EDT) |Hearings to examine VA accountability and transparency, focusing on care and benefits for veterans.