WASHINGTON—After a long recess that began in September, both houses of the 118th Congress will return on Nov. 12 for its final session. It’s the first time the legislature will convene after general elections on Nov. 5, in which Republicans gained control of the Senate in the 119th Congress that takes office on Jan. 3, 2025. Below, we list what to expect.
New Senators and Leaders
The balance of power in either house will not change until January, with Democrats retaining their working majority in the Senate through the end of 2024. However, during such a session, Congress is often termed a “lame duck,” since a new electoral mandate is evident. Moreover, the composition of the Senate will change almost immediately, with several new electees joining the body.These include Sen.-elect and current Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), who won a general and special election to the Senate seat held by the late Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.). The special election, as required by state law, is to serve the remaining months of Feinstein’s term in the 118th Congress, with the temporary appointee to that seat, Sen. Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.), leaving the body accordingly.
