As a lengthy August recess approaches, recent changes are leaving Republicans, who were already dealing with a narrow Senate majority, two votes short on the Appropriations Committee.
The sudden death of Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) late Saturday night leaves a vacancy in the powerful Senate Budget Committee. As Chairman of the Senate Budget Committee, Graham played a major role in drafting budget resolutions and reconciliation bills, including last year’s “One Big Beautiful Bill,” and recent immigration enforcement package. His death complicates the plans of House Republican leaders to push through another reconciliation package. Graham also served as chairman of the State-Foreign Operations Appropriations Subcommittee. South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster will appoint a temporary replacement to serve out the rest of Graham’s term. Graham, who was up for reelection, was set to face Democrat Annie Andrews in November. An August 11 special primary election will determine the new Republican nominee.
Chair of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) is also absent from Congress, having spent the last several weeks in the hospital following a medical emergency. His sudden departure and relative silence from his office have caused widespread speculation over his condition, including from Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, who sent him a letter last week urging a transparent status update on his condition and ability to continue holding office. Last night, McConnell released a statement that said he was recovering at a rehabilitation center after losing consciousness from a fall, and a case of pneumonia. His continued absence has forced Appropriations Chair Susan Collins (R-ME) to postpone FY27 fiscal markups yet again. Republicans have a one-seat margin on the Senate Appropriations Committee and will not be able to advance any spending bills even along party lines without full attendance.