Senate Breaks for Summer After Failed Negotiations to Confirm Nominees

Republicans are considering pursuing a Senate rule change in order to speed up the confirmation of presidential nominees.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) is surrounded by reporters as he returns to his office at the U.S. Capitol on July 28, 2025. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

The Senate was adjourned for the summer on Aug. 2 after Republicans and Democrats failed to reach an agreement to allow quick confirmation of dozens of Trump nominees.

Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) on Aug. 1 floated the option of recess appointments, but that would have required an adjournment of at least 10 days, which requires the consent of the Senate.