Overview

• Senators remained in session through the weekend after Majority Leader John Thune delayed the planned August recess amid the backlog.
• Thune said all options are on the table, including recess appointments, en bloc confirmations, debate time reductions and rule reforms.
• Democrats have blocked quick voice-vote or unanimous-consent approvals by forcing roll-call debates on nearly every Trump nominee.
• Direct talks between White House officials and Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer have yet to yield an agreement to fast-track nominees.
• Senators Thom Tillis and Lisa Murkowski have expressed reluctance to back extended recesses or unilateral rule changes without bipartisan support.