Key facts
- The U.S. Senate passed a short-term funding bill.
- The funding bill will keep federal agencies operational through December 11.
- The bill averts a government shutdown before the November midterm elections.
- The measure now heads to the House of Representatives.
- The Senate passed sweeping Russia sanctions legislation.
- The bill is named the "Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026".
- The Russia sanctions bill passed with an 86 to 11 vote.
- The bill includes expanded sanctions on Iran.
- The bill grants the White House broad authority to issue tariffs.
- The Senate confirmed dozens of President Donald Trump's nominees.
- Confirmed nominees include ambassadors to Australia, Norway, and Brazil.
- Top State Department officials were also confirmed.
The U.S. Senate has taken action on several fronts, passing a short-term funding bill to avert a government shutdown and keep federal agencies operational through December 11. This measure now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.
In a separate development, the Senate approved the "Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026" with a substantial 86-11 vote. This legislation imposes sweeping sanctions on Russia and expands sanctions on Iran. A key provision grants the White House broad authority to implement tariffs.
Furthermore, the Senate confirmed dozens of President Donald Trump's nominees on Friday. These confirmations include individuals appointed as ambassadors to Australia, Norway, and Brazil, as well as other top officials within the State Department. These appointments are crucial for filling diplomatic roles that have been vacant for an extended period.