DHA Insights: September 25, 2025
The top agenda item in Washington these days is funding the federal government for 2026 and preventing a government shutdown when funding runs out at the end of this month. A shutdown became much more likely when Democrats failed to provide votes for a clean continuing resolution that would fund the government at existing levels. Sixty votes are needed in the Senate to pass the legislation. Democrats are pushing for an additional $1 trillion in healthcare spending as a condition for keeping the government open. Earlier this week, President Trump canceled a meeting with Democratic leadership, calling this position unserious. This is a big gap.
Trade and deregulation are also on the agenda as the U.S. Trade Representative has started the process to review the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The Trump administration has released its Unified Regulatory Agenda, which might be more aptly titled its deregulatory agenda.
If you have questions or comments, contact me. I look forward to hearing from you.
Keith A. Christman, President