WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) — With the up-to-date Congress now in session, lawmakers have a sprawling agenda ahead of them, from government funding to Cabinet confirmations.
On Friday, 75 up-to-date members were sworn in at the start of the 119th Congress.
“We have a bold government agenda led by President Trump,” said Rep. Nick Langworthy (R-N.Y.).
The Republicans will hold a trifecta in Washington with a razor-thin majority in the House of Representatives and 53 seats in the Senate.
“This is going to be another tough Congress,” said Rep. Jill Tokuda (D-Hawaii).
GOP lawmakers like New Yorker Nick Langworthy say implementing President-elect Donald Trump’s agenda and securing the southern border is a top priority.
“We need to seal this southern border,” Langworthy said.
Some Democrats agree that action needs to be taken at the border.
California Congressman Lou Correa says there is room for compromise.
“There are a lot of similarities. I think we need to start by talking to each other and not at each other,” Correa said.
Congressman Jake Auchincloss (D-Mass.) says lawmakers also want to make life more affordable for Americans.
“There are currently three bipartisan bills to be submitted. One to reduce prescription drug costs through health insurance reforms,” Auchincloss said.
The debate over state funding will soon be back on the agenda. The latest short-term spending measure expires in March.
Republican Rep. Andy Barr of Kentucky says Congress needs to spend more responsibly.
“Spending cuts are very, very important to force the government to live within its means,” Barr said.
Meanwhile, the Senate will soon hold Cabinet confirmation hearings.
Sen. Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii) says she will take a close look at each candidate.
“My concerns are with their experience and what they bring to the table,” Hirono said.
Cabinet hearings will begin in the next few weeks.
