Yesterday, Congress returned from its Thanksgiving break. Efforts by the majority to approve a tax reform package have resumed in the Senate. Simultaneously, Republican and Democratic leaders in both chambers are in discussions to prevent a government shutdown on December 9, when a temporary spending measure that is currently in place will expire.

The possibility of a shutdown has increased, as the White House resists Democrats demands to include a fix that protects young people impacted by the rescission of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) policy from deportation. Democrats are also firm in their opposition to the White House request for funding for a southern border wall. Additionally, Democrats are seeking an agreement to raise overall spending caps for the next two years. The position is supported by some Republicans who seek increases for certain discretionary programs.