Congress faces a December 11 funding deadline after passing a continuing resolution in September that extends current spending levels through the first weeks of fiscal year 2027. Republicans retain control during the lame-duck session following Democratic midterm gains that shift majorities in both chambers starting in January. Negotiators must address full-year appropriations totaling roughly $1.9 trillion, defense priorities including supplemental funding tied to Iran operations, and potential policy riders, with limited time before the CR expires. A short-term extension or hybrid package appears likely, though disputes over spending allocations and war-related authorities could trigger brinkmanship. The next major scheduled action is the return of Congress the week of November 9.