As lawmakers head back to Capitol Hill this week following a six-week summer recess, Congress faces an urgent agenda led by the looming threat of a government shutdown—and renewed scrutiny over the status of unreleased files related to Jeffrey Epstein.

Government Funding Deadline

At the top of the list is the need to pass legislation to fund the federal government before the new fiscal year begins on October 1. Failure to do so would trigger a government shutdown, potentially disrupting federal services and delaying pay for government workers.

With Republicans holding the majority in both chambers, any successful funding package will still require bipartisan cooperation. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries have called for immediate bipartisan negotiations with President Donald Trump and GOP leadership to secure a path forward.

That request has not yet been granted. Asked about the possibility of a meeting with Democratic leaders, Trump offered a dismissive response on August 13:

“Well, I will, I guess. But it’s almost a waste of time to meet because they never approve anything.”

Democrats are expected to push hard for reinstating cuts to Medicaid and rural hospital funding as part of any budget deal. Even if all 53 Senate Republicans support a funding bill, at least seven Democratic votes will be needed to avoid a filibuster. That cooperation appears uncertain, especially after Trump’s recent call for a new rescissions package—a proposal to revoke $4.9 billion in previously approved foreign aid.

Renewed Pressure on Epstein Files

In addition to budget battles, Republican lawmakers are expected to face renewed questions about the next steps regarding the Jeffrey Epstein files—a controversial topic that has gained bipartisan interest and public attention in recent months.

While no formal hearings have been scheduled yet, pressure is mounting on the House Oversight and Judiciary Committees to follow through on promises to investigate Epstein’s connections, death, and any remaining sealed documents that could implicate high-profile individuals.

Some Republicans have signaled that they plan to elevate the issue in the coming weeks, especially as public calls for transparency grow louder.