4:01 p.m. The Senate adjourned and will convene on Monday, November 18, 2019. Following leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of the Robert J. Luck to be to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit.

There will be a 5:30 p.m. vote on the Luck nomination.

During wrap-up:

• R. 3889, ONDCP Technical Corrections Act of 2019, was agreed to by unanimous consent.
• Res. 415, expressing the sense of the Senate that the United States Postal Service should issue a commemorative postage stamp series honoring women veterans of the Armed Forces and that the Citizens’ Stamp Advisory Committee should recommend to the Postmaster General that such a stamp series be issued, was adopted by unanimous consent.
• Res. 393, recognizing the historical, cultural, and religious significance of the 550th birthday of Guru Nanak and the contributions and sacrifices made by Sikhs of the United States, was adopted by unanimous consent.
• Adopted by unanimous consent en bloc:
  • Res. 422, recognizing November 15, 2019, as “America Recycles Day” and expressing the sense of the Senate that recycling promotes a healthy economy and responsible environmental stewardship.
  • Res. 423, recognizing November 2019 as “National Homeless Children and Youth Awareness Month”.
  • Res. 424, recognizing the 100th Anniversary of the Colorado Farm Bureau Federation and celebrating the long history of the Colorado Farm Bureau Federation representing the farmer and ranchers of Colorado.
  • Res. 425, designating October 2019 as “National Down Syndrome Awareness Month” and supporting the goals and ideals of National Down Syndrome Awareness Month.

****

3:42 p.m. Senator Cramer spoke about Sully’s Hill Game Preserve and the Senate adopted S. 2099 by unanimous consent.

3:18 p.m. Senator Boozman spoke about recycling.

3:03 p.m. Senator Carper spoke about recycling.

2:47 p.m. Senator Blackburn spoke about Africa.

2:29 p.m. Senator McConnell filed cloture on the following nominations:

• Robert Luck to be US Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit
• Barbara Lagoa to be US Circuit Judge for the Eleventh Circuit
• Adrian Zuckerman to be Ambassador to Romania

2:26 p.m. The nomination of Steven Menashi was confirmed by a vote of 51-41. Republicans voting no: Senator Collins. Not voting: Bennet, Booker, Harris, Jones, Klobuchar, Rounds, Sanders and Warren.

1:42 p.m. Roll call vote began on confirmation of the Menashi nomination.

1:31 p.m. Senator Casey spoke paid tribute to former senator Kay Hagan.

1:13 p.m. Senator Portman paid tribute to Ohio veterans.

1:03 p.m. Senator Gardner paid tribute to Colorado Veterans and Military Families.

12:50 p.m. Senator Duckworth asked UC to proceed to S. 1573 (Veterans co-pay for medications). Senator Boozeman objected.

12:36 p.m. Senator Reed spoke about the Menashi nomination.

12:30 p.m. Senator Murray spoke about healthcare.

11:50 a.m. Senator Brown spoke about veterans and paid tribute to Dayton Police Detective George Del Rio.

11:42 a.m. Senator Stabenow spoke about veterans.

11:32 a.m. Senator Cornyn spoke about the Violence Against Women Act and e cigarettes.

11:31 a.m. H.Con.Res. 72, correction in enrollment of H.R. 2423,  was adopted by unanimous consent.

11:21 a.m. Senator Blumenthal spoke about gun violence.

11:11 a.m. Senator Murphy spoke about gun violence and asked unanimous consent that the Senate adopt H.R. 8. Senator Hyde Smith objected.

11:05 a.m. Senator Murray spoke about gun control.

10:55 a.m. Minority Leader Schumer spoke about the Menashi nomination, veterans, and trade policy.

10:40 a.m. Senator Thune spoke about adoption.

10:37 a.m. Senator Durbin spoke about the late Senator Hagen.

10:04 a.m. Majority Leader McConnell spoke about nominations and appropriations. He spoke about defenses against Russian interference in U.S. elections.

10:02 p.m. Senator Grassley spoke about efforts to ease the burdens on farmers.

*****

The Senate will convene at 10 a.m. and will resume consideration of the nomination of Steven Menashi to the U.S. Circuit Court for the Second Circuit.

A vote on confirmation of Menashi’s nomination will occur at 1:45 p.m.

6:40 p.m. The Senate adjourned until 10 a.m. Thursday.

6:30 p.m. Senator Lankford spoke about President Erdogan.

6:19 p.m. Senator Brown spoke against the nomination of Steven Menashi. He spoke about pensions.

6:13 p.m. Senator Menendez spoke about the Armenian genocide. He sought consent for passage of S. Res. 150, to commemorate the Armenian genocide.  Sen. Graham objected.

5:55 p.m. Senator Barrasso spoke about the economy. He spoke about impeachment.

5:49 p.m. The Senate consented to passage of S-2851, to amend Section 442 of Title 18.  By consent, the Senate will convene Thursday at 10 a.m. and will resume consideration of the nomination of Steven Menashi to the Second U.S. Circuit Court. A vote on confirmation will occur at 1:45 p.m.

5:22 p.m. Senators Grassley and Shaheen spoke about sexual assault legislation.

5:04 p.m. Senator Whitehouse spoke about climate change.

4:59 p.m. Senator Thune spoke  on the USMCA trade agreement.

4:49 p.m. Senator Brown urged the list of medical conditions for veterans exposed to Agent Orange be expanded. He asked that S Res 420 on that topic be passed by unanimous consent.  Senator Isakson objected.

4:25 p.m. Senator Kennedy spoke on 5G technology.

4:14 p.m. Senator Manchin spoke about homeless children and youth.

4:05 p.m. Senator Tester spoke about veterans, Agent Orange and Vietnam.

3:59 p.m. Senator Moran spoke about abuse in the Olympics.

3:50 p.m. Senator Whitehouse spoke about the Menashi nomination.

3:23 p.m. Senators Cotton, Perdue, Fischer, and Tillis spoke about the Defense Authorization bill.

3:15 p.m. Senator Blunt spoke about the Defense Authorization bill.

3:09 p.m. Senator Murphy spoke about health care.

2:59 p.m. Senator Sullivan spoke about supporting Veterans.

2:38 p.m. Senator Heinrich spoke against the Wolf nomination.

2:30 p.m. Senator Cramer spoke on the Defense authorization and appropriations bills.

2:00 p.m. Senators Grassley and Collins spoke on prescription drug pricing.

12:49 p.m. The Senate recessed until 2:00 p.m. to allow for the policy luncheons.

12:37 p.m. Senator Schumer spoke about the impeachment inquiry, the Dept. of Agriculture’s Market Facilitation Program, and the funding of treatment for Vietnam veterans suffering from exposure to agent orange.

12:04 p.m. Senator Cornyn spoke about the cost of prescription drugs and asked unanimous consent for the Senate to adopt S. 1416 and the Cornyn substitute amendment. Senator Durbin objected and asked unanimous consent to adopt S.1437 and the Durbin-Grassley amendment. Senator Toomey objected and asked unanimous consent that the Senate adopt S.1416 and the Cornyn substitute and following disposition of S. 1416, the Senate proceed to H.R. 2740 and following the offering of a substitute amendment by Senator Shelby or his designee, the first amendment in order be an amendment to be offered by Senator Durbin or Senator Grassley, the text of which is identical to S. 1437, as amended. Senator Durbin objected. Senator Schumer also joined the debate over the cost of prescription drugs.

12:02 p.m. Senator Blumenthal spoke about the cost of prescription drugs.

12:01 p.m. Cloture was invoked on Steven J. Menashi to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the Second Circuit by a vote of 51 to 44.

Senator Collins voted NO.

Senators Booker, Harris, Rounds, Sanders, and Warren were absent.

11:38 a.m. Roll call vote began on the motion to invoke cloture on Steven J. Menashi to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the Second Circuit.

11:37 a.m. Chad Wolf to be Under Secretary for Strategy, Policy, and Plans, Department of Homeland Security was confirmed by a vote of 54-41.

Senators Manchin and Sinema voted YES.

Senators Booker, Harris, Rounds, Sanders, and Warren were absent.

11:00 a.m. The confirmation vote began on the Wolf nomination.

10:12 a.m. Senator Durbin spoke about Senate procedure, nominations, and immigration.

10:05 a.m. Majority Leader McConnell spoke about nominations. He spoke about the White House visit of Turkish President Erdogan. He spoke about impeachment and about appropriations.

10:02 a.m. Senator Grassley spoke about adoption.

*****

The Senate will convene at 10 a.m. and will resume consideration of Executive Calendar #387, Chad F. Wolf, of Virginia to be Under Secretary for Strategy, Policy, and Plans, Department of Homeland Security, post-cloture.

At 11 a.m., all post-cloture time will be considered expired, and the Senate will vote on confirmation of the Wolf nomination. Following disposition of the Wolf nomination, the Senate will vote on the motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #486, Steven J. Menashi, of New York, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Second Circuit.

The Senate will recess from 12:30 p.m. until 2 p.m. to allow for the weekly caucus meetings.

4:48 p.m. The Senate adjourned and will reconvene for a proforma session at 8:00 a.m on Friday, November 7. They will reconvene for regular session at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 12 and will resume consideration of Chad Wolf to be Under Secretary for the Department of Homeland Security with a vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the nomination to occur at 5:30 p.m.

Passed during wrap up:

• S. 1388-Supply Chain Counterintelligence Training Act
• S. 979-FACE Act
• H.R. 1123- Divisional Realignment for the Eastern District of Arkansas Act of 2019
• S. Res. 412-National Family Service Learning Week
• S. Res. 413-National Veterans Small Business Week.
• S. Res. 414-National Native American Heritage Month

4:31 p.m. Senator Sullivan spoke about the Alaskan of the Week.

3:36 p.m. Senator Peters spoke about prescription drug costs.

3:15 p.m. Senator Ernst spoke about the Violence Against Women Act.

2:54 p.m. Senator Merkley spoke about price gouging for insulin.

2:40 p.m. Senator Portman spoke on reforms to retirement plans.

2:36 p.m. ML McConnell filed cloture on the following:

**Chad Wolf to be Under Secretary for Strategy, Policy and Plans to the Department of Homeland Security.

**Steven Menashi to be a Circuit Court Judge.

2:35 p.m. The Nardini nomination was confirmed 86-2.

Senators Gillibrand and Markey voted against.

1:38 p.m. Roll call vote began on confirmation of the nomination of William Nardini to be a U.S. circuit court judge for the Second Circuit.

1:24 p.m. Senator Casey spoke on impeachment.

12:58 p.m. Senators Toomey, Cruz and Portman spoke on tax code revisions. Senator Toomey asked UC to take up H.R. 1994 with equal numbers of amendments and a 10 hour time agreement.  Senator Murray objected and offered her own UC to take up and pass HR 1994 without amendments. Senator Toomey objected.

12:57 p.m. The Wilson nomination was confirmed 88-3.

Senators voting against: 3 Democrats: Gillibrand, Hirono and Markey.

Senators not voting: 6 Democrats: Booker, Cardin, Harris, Klobuchar, Warren and Wyden; 2 Republicans: Isakson and Perdue; 1 Independent: Sanders.

12:31 p.m. The Senate began a roll call vote on confirmation of Executive Calendar #365 Jennifer Wilson to be U.S. District Judge for the Middle District of Pennsylvania.

12:22 p.m. DL Schumer spoke about Syria and ISIS and asked u.c. to call up and pass S 2755, A bill to require a report on the plan to secure the enduring defeat of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria. Senator Scott of Florida proposed an amendment to modify S. 2755, Senator Schumer objected to the modification. Senator Scott of Florida objected to passing S. 2755.

12:21 p.m. By a tally of 51-41 the Senate confirmed the nomination of Lee Rudofsky to be U.S. District Judge for the Eastern District of Arkansas.

11:45 a.m. Roll call vote began on confirmation of Lee Rudofsky to be US District Judge for the Eastern District of Arkansas.

11:44 a.m. Senator Durbin spoke about prescription drug prices.

11:42 a.m. Senator Cornyn spoke about prescription drug prices.

10:55 a.m. Senator Kaine spoke about veterans.

10:45 a.m. Senator Murray spoke against the several judicial nominations.

10:40 a.m. Senator Thune spoke about defense appropriation.

10:25 a.m. Minority Leader Schumer spoke about appropriations and immigration.

10:04 a.m. Majority Leader McConnell spoke about nominations. He spoke about the rural economy.

10:02 a.m. Senator Grassley spoke about veterans.

10 a.m. Senator Inhofe delivered the morning prayer.

*****

The Senate will convene at 10 a.m.

At 11:45 a.m., roll call votes will begin on confirmation of the nominations of Lee Rudofsky to be United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Arkansas and of  Jennifer Wilson to be United States District Judge for the Middle District of Pennsylvania.

At 1:45 p.m., the Senate will vote on confirmation of the nomination of William Nardini to be a U.S. circuit court judge for the Second Circuit.

6:15 p.m. The Senate adjourned.

6:14 p.m. ML McConnell wrapped up for the evening. No business was done by voice vote or unanimous consent during wrap-up.

4:31 p.m Senators Warner, Murray, Wyden and Stabenow spoke about health care and pre-existing conditions.

4:12 p.m. Senator Wyden spoke USMCA.

3:49 p.m. Senator Cramer spoke supporting the USMCA.

3:40 p.m. Senator Cardin spoke about election security and asked u.c. to call up and pass S. 1834, Deceptive Practices and Voter Intimidation Prevention Act. Senator Cramer objected.

3:39 p.m. The Senate did not agree to passage of SJ Res 50, the “State and Local Taxes” (SALT) CRA by a tally of 43-52.

Senator Bennet voted against the resolution and Senator Paul voted in favor.

Senators not voting: Harris, Isakson, Sanders, Warren and Whitehouse.

3:05 p.m. The Senate began a roll call vote on passage of S.J. Res. 50, to disapprove of a measure relating to credits for state and local taxes.

2:53 p.m. Senator Sullivan spoke paying tribute to former Senator Ted Stevens, the Alaskan of the Century.

2:50 p.m. Senator Shelby spoke paying tribute to former Senator Stevens.

2:45 p.m. Senator Wicker spoke paying tribute to former Senator Ted Stevens.

2:29 p.m. Senators Blunt, Murkowski, Wicker, Shelby and Sullivan paid tribute to former Senator Ted Stevens and on his portrait unveiling.

1:42 p.m. Senators Ernst, McSally, Blackburn, Portman, Wicker Hyde-Smith, Hoeven and Blunt spoke about the USMCA.

1:33 p.m. Senator Wyden spoke about flawed SALT regulations.

1:08 p.m. Senator Grassley spoke about the USMCA and tax reform.

12:56 p.m. Senator Menendez spoke about tax reform.

12:53 p.m. Senator Barrasso spoke about tax reform.

12:33 p.m. Senator Cornyn spoke about gun control and mental health as well as tax reform.

12:25 p.m. Senator Hoeven spoke about the Appropriations process.

12:21 p.m. Senator Merkley spoke about the Agriculture Appropriations bill.

12:13 p.m. Senator Feinstein spoke about Ted Stevens.

12:02 p.m. Senator Hawley spoke about Hong Kong protests.

11:54 a.m. Senator Wyden asked UC to proceed to S. 2238-the SAFE act. Senator Blackburn objected.

11:45 a.m. Senator Klobuchar and Senator Wyden spoke about election security legislation. Senator Klobuchar asked UC to proceed S. 2669 -the SHIELD act. Senator Blackburn objected.

11:41 a.m. Senator Warner asked UC to proceed to S. 2242-FIRE Act. Senator Blackburn objected.

11:35 a.m. Senator Warner spoke about Russian election interference.

11:27 a.m. Senator Toomey spoke about tax reform.

10:57 a.m. Senators Murkowski and Udall spoke on the appropriations process and H.R. 3055; specifically the Department of Interior portions.

10:46 a.m. Senator Gardner spoke on his tours around Colorado discussing agriculture.

10:40 a.m. Senator Daines spoke on trade.

10:34 a.m. Democratic Leader spoke on the situation in Syria.

10:11 a.m. Senator Thune spoke about the pending state and local tax measure. He spoke about the tax exemption for religious organizations.

9:41 a.m. Majority Leader McConnell spoke about Senator Stevens. He spoke about H.R. 4617, a measure relating to the Federal Election Commission. He spoke about the pending measure on state and local tax credits.

Senator acted under Rule XIV to bring directl to the floor S.J. Res. 59, expressing the sense of Congress opposing the U.S. withdrawal from Syria and Turkey’s incursion into Turkey.

9:32 a.m. Senator Grassley spoke about the unveiling of a portrait of the late Sen. Ted Stevens.

***

The Senate will convene at 9:30 a.m. and will resume consideration of S.J. Res. 50, to disapprove of a measure relating to credits for state and local taxes.

At 2:45 p.m., the Senate will vote on passage of the resolution to disapprove of the tax-credit measure.

After the vote on the tax question, the Senate will resume consideration of the fiscal 2020 appropriations minibus, H.R.3055. Measure covers spending for the Departments of Commerce, Justice, Agriculture, Interior, Transportation, HUD and related agencies, as well as military construction, veterans affairs, and science.

Senate Amendment #948 and Senate Amendment #950 are now pending to H.R.3055, the appropriations measure.

7:12 p.m. The Senate adjourned. The Senate will convene at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday and will resume consideration of S.J. Res. 50, to disapprove of a measure relating to tax credits, with a vote at 2:45 p.m. Following disposition of S.J. Res. 50, the Senate will resume consideration  of the appropriations minibus, H.R.3055.

6:55 p.m. Senator Bennet spoke against the tax measure.

6:50 p.m. Senator Merkley paid tribute to his departing staffer Kaelin Gaffney

6:30 p.m. Senator Moran spoke about appropriations. During wrap-up, the Senate:

— Acted under Rule XIV to place directly on the Senate Calendar  S.J.Res. 59, expressing the sense of Congress disapproving of the U.S. withdrawal of troops from Syria and Turkey’s incursion into Syria.

— Passed by consent S.Res 373, expressing support for September to be Sickle Cell Awareness Month.

— Passed by voice vote S.1590, to amend the State Department authorizing statute to take action against criminal trafficking in wildlife.

6:14 p.m. Senator Jones spoke about a bill relating to college expenses.

6:05 p.m. Senator Alexander spoke about aid to college students.

4:58 p.m. Senator Reed spoke about the appropriation for Labor, HUD and related agencies. He spoke about Russian efforts to influence U.S. elections.

4:55 p.m. The Senate consented to Senator Durbin’s motion to proceed to S.J.Res. 50, to disapprove of a measure relating to tax credits. There will be up to 10 hours of debate.

4:50 p.m. Senator Leah spoke about appropriations.

4:44 p.m. ML McConnell moved to proceed to Calendar #141, H.R.3055, CJS, Ag, Interior, MilConVA, THUD Appropriations by voice vote. Senate Amendment #948 and Senate Amendment #950 are now pending to Calendar #141, H.R.3055, CJS, Ag, Interior, MilConVA, THUD Appropriations.

4:25 p.m. Senator Collins spoke supporting H.R. 3055, an act making appropriations for the Departments of Commerce and Justice, Science, and Related Agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2020, and for other purposes (the legislative vehicle for minibus II, with the THUD, Agriculture, Interior, and CJS Senate texts).

4:10 p.m. Senator Enzi spoke about pension plans.

4:02 p.m. Senator Barrasso spoke about health care.

3:59 p.m. Senator Cotton paid tribute to an Arkansan former MIA from the Korean War whose remains were recently discovered.

3:57 p.m. The Senate invoked cloture on the motion to proceed to HR 3055, 92-2.

Senators voting against: Blackburn and Paul.

Senators not voting: Democrats Booker, Harris, Whitehouse and Warren; Independent Sanders; Republican Isakson.

3:32 p.m. Roll call vote began on cloture on the motion to proceed to HR 3055.

3:23 p.m. Democratic Leader Schumer spoke on the situation in Syria and asked UC to take up and pass the House passed bill, HJ Res 77; Senator Paul objected.

3:22 p.m. The Senate confirmed the Bremberg nomination 50-44.
YEAs 50 Republicans.
NAYs 41 Democrats, Independent King, Republicans Collins and Murkowski.
NOT VOTING: Democrats Booker, Harris, Whitehouse and Warren;  independent Sanders; Republican Isakson.

2:45 p.m. Roll call vote began on confirmation of the nomination of Andrew Bremberg to be Representative of the United States of America to the Office of the United Nations and Other International Organizations in Geneva.

2:30 p.m. Senator Leahy spoke on HR 3055.

2:15 p.m. The Senate returned from recess.  Senator Shelby spoke on the appropriations process and HR 3055.

1:21 p.m. The Senate recessed until 2:15 p.m.

1:20 p.m. By a vote of 50 to 43, the Senate invoked cloture on the Bremberg nomination.

YEAs 50 Republicans.
NAYs 40 Democrats, independent King, Republicans Collins and Murkowski.
NOT VOTING: Democrats Bennet, Booker, Harris, Whitehouse and Warren; independent Sanders; Republican Isakson.

12:55 p.m. Roll call vote began on cloture on the Bremberg nomination.

12:54 p.m. By a tally of 91 to 2, the Senate ratified Treaty Document #116-1, Protocol to the North Atlantic Treaty of 1949 on the Accession of the Republic of North Macedonia. Senators Lee and Paul voted against.

YEAs: 51 Republicans, 39 Democrats, independent King.
NAYs: Republicans Lee and Paul.
NOT VOTING: Democrats Bennet, Booker, Harris, Markey and Warren;  independent Sanders; Republican Isakson.

12:20 p.m. The Senate began a roll call vote on ratification of Treaties Calendar #5, Treaty Document #116-1, Protocol to the North Atlantic Treaty of 1949 on the Accession of the Republic of North Macedonia (requires 2/3).

11:58 a.m. Senator Johnson spoke supporting ratification of Treaty 116-1.

11:52 a.m. Senator Paul spoke against the ratification of Treaty 116-1.

11:30 a.m. Senator Durbin spoke on Russian interference in U.S. elections. Senator Durbin asked u.c. to call up and pass S 1540, Election Security Act. Senator Kennedy objected.

11:06 a.m. Senator Klobuchar spoke urging action on election security legislation. Senator Klobuchar asked u.c. to call up and pass S 1356, Honest Ads Act. Senator Thune objected.

10:46 a.m. Senator Cornyn spoke abuts opioid drug epidemic.

10:39 a.m. Senator Perdue spoke about health care legislation.

10:25 a.m. Minority Leader Schumer spoke about pending legislation, including appropriations. He spoke about Syria.

10:14 -Majority Leader spoke about nominations. He spoke about the situation in Syria.

10:03 a.m. Senator Grassley spoke about the Marine Corporal Harold Keller of Iowa, one of those who planted the American flag on Iwo Jima, during the World War II battle.

***

The Senate will convene at 10 a.m. and will resume post-cloture consideration of the Protocol to the North Atlantic Treaty of 1949 on the Accession of the Republic of North Macedonia (Treaty No.116-1).

At noon, there will be two votes:

• Passage of the resolution to ratify the Protocol to the North Atlantic Treaty of 1949 on the Accession of the Republic of North Macedonia (Treaty No.116-1).
• Cloture on the nomination of Andrew Bremberg to be Representative of the United States of America to the Office of the United Nations and Other International Organizations in Geneva.

The Senate will recess for weekly caucus luncheons from 12:30 p.m. until 2:15 p.m.

Afternoon roll call votes expected: confirmation of the Bremberg nomination and cloture on the motion to proceed to the fiscal 2020 “minibus” appropriation, H.R.3055, for the Departments of Commerce and Justice and related agencies (and including the texts for the Departments of Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, Agriculture, Interior, Commerce and Justice).

 Other votes are possible today.

Cloture has ripened for H.R.2740, the fiscal 2020 appropriation for the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and related agencies (and including texts for spending on  defense, foreign operations, energy and water).

7:11 p.m. The Senate adjourned and will convene at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 17. Following leader remarks the EPW Committee will be discharge from further consideration of S.J. Res. 53, the Affordable Clean Energy CRA. If the motion to proceed is made and agreed to, the time until noon will be equally divided.

2 roll call votes scheduled:

12:00 Noon:

     Passage of S.J. Res. 53, the Affordable Clean Energy CRA.

1:45 p.m.:

     Passage of S.J. Res. 54, re: the National Emergency Declaration of objections of the President notwithstanding.

During wrap-up:

• Began the Rule XIV process to place on the Legislative Calendar of Business:
  • J. Res. 58, Expressing support for freedom of Conscience.
  • J. Res. 77, Opposing the decision to end certain United States efforts to prevent Turkish military operations against Syrian Kurdish forces in Northeast Syria.
• Res. 358 – Designating the week beginning October 20, 2019, as National Character Counts Week, was adopted by unanimous consent.
• Res. 356 – Designating September 4, 2019, as National Polycystic Kidney Disease Awareness Day, was adopted by unanimous consent.
• Res. 324 – Designating September 29, 2019 as National Urban Wildlife Refuge Day, was adopted by unanimous consent.
• Res. 359 – Authorizing the use of the atrium in the Philip A. Hart Senate Office Building for the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day a semiannual event for the Drug Enforcement Administration

****

7:03 p.m. Senator Markey spoke about the House impeachment inquiry.

6:44 p.m. Senator Capito spoke about coal, pension, and the Volk nomination.

6:43 p.m. The Senate confirmed the Kovner nomination 88-3.

Senators voting against: Gillibrand, Heinrich and Markey.

Senators not voting:  5 Democrats: Bennet, Booker, Harris, Klobuchar and Warren; 2 Republicans: Alexander and Isakson; 1 Independent: Sanders.

6:16 p.m. The Senate began voting on confirmation of the nomination of Rachel Kovner to be a District Judge for the Eastern District of the New York.

6:15 p.m. The Senate confirmed the nomination of David Novak by a vote of 89-3.

Senators voting against: 3 Democrats: Gillibrand, Markey and Wyden.

Not voting: 5 Democrats: Bennet, Booker, Harris, Klobuchar and Warren; 2 Republicans: Alexander and Isakson; 1 Independent: Sanders.

5:57 p.m. The Senate began voting on confirmation of the nomination of David Novak to be District Judge for the Eastern District of Virginia.

5:57 p.m. The Senate confirmed the Eskridge nomination, 61-31.

Democrats voting YES: Cardin, Carper, Coons, Feinstein, Kaine, Murphy, Shaheen, Warner and Whitehouse.

Not voting: 5 Democrats: Bennet, Booker, Harris, Klobuchar and Warren; 2 Republicans: Alexander and Isakson; 1 Independent: Sanders.

5:38 p.m. The Senate began voting on confirmation of the nomination of Charles Eskridge to be U.S. District Judge for the Southern District of Texas.

5:37 p.m. The Senate confirmed the nomination of Frank Volk to be U.S. District Judge for the Southern District of West Virginia by a tally of 92-0.

Not voting: 5 Democrats: Bennet, Booker, Harris, Klobuchar and Warren; 2 Republicans: Alexander and Isakson; 1 Independent: Sanders.

5:18 p.m. The Senate began a roll call vote on Confirmation of Frank Volk to be U.S. District Judge for the Southern District of West Virginia.

5:17 p.m. The Senate confirmed the nomination of Barbara Barrett to be Secretary of the Air Force by a vote of 85-7.

Senators voting against: Blumenthal, Duckworth, Gillibrand, Markey, Merkley, Smith and Wyden.

Not voting: 5 Democrats: Bennet, Booker, Harris, Klobuchar and Warren; 2 Republicans: Alexander and Isakson; 1 Independent: Sanders.

4:43 p.m. The Senate began a roll call vote on confirmation of Barbara Barrett to be secretary of the Air Force.

4:34 p.m. Senator Sullivan spoke supporting the nomination of Barbara Barrett.

4:28 p.m. Senator Carper spoke supporting S.J.Res. 53.

4:18 p.m. Senator Cotton spoke supporting the protesters in Hong Kong.

3:51 p.m. Senators Cardin, Van Hollen, and Whitehouse spoke about S.J.Res. 53.

3:40 p.m. Senator Sasse spoke supporting the USMCA and on religious intolerance.

3:28 p.m. Senator Fischer spoke supporting the USMCA.

3:10 p.m. Senator Lankford spoke about the Kurds in Turkey.

2:41 p.m. Senator Murphy spoke on President Trump, foreign policy and the impeachment inquiry.

2:37 p.m. Senator Manchin spoke in favor of the Volk nomination.

2:15 p.m. The Senate returned from recess.  Senator Scott of Florida gave his maiden speech.

1:00 p.m. The Senate recessed until 2:15 to allow for the weekly caucus luncheons.

12:51 p.m. Senator Brown spoke about pensions and asked unanimous consent to adopt S.2254, Butch Lewis Act 2019. Senator Grassley objected.

12:50 p.m. Cloture was invoked on Rachel P. Rovner to be U.S. District Judge for the Eastern District of New York by a vote of 85 to 3.

Senators Gillibrand, Heinrich and Wyden voted against.

Senators not voting: Alexander, Bennet, Booker, Harris, Hirono, Inhofe, Isakson, Johnson, Klobuchar, Sanders, Stabenow and Warren.

12:25 p.m. The Senate is now voting on the motion to invoke cloture on the nomination of Rachel P. Rovner to be U.S. District Judge for the Eastern District of New York.

12:24 p.m. Cloture was invoked on the Novak nomination by a vote of 86 to 4. Senators Gillibrand, Heinrich, Markey, and Wyden voted NO. Senators Alexander, Bennet, Booker, Harris, Hirono, Isakson, Johnson, Klobuchar, Sanders, and Warren did not vote.

12:03 p.m. The Senate is now voting on David John Novak to be U.S. District Judge for the Eastern District of Virginia.

12:02 p.m. Cloture was invoked on the Eskridge nomination by a vote of 61 to 29. Senators Cardin, Carper, Feinstein, Shaheen, Sinema, Warner, and Whitehouse voted YES. Senators Alexander, Bennet, Booker, Harris, Hirono, Isakson, Johnson, Klobuchar, Sanders, and Warren did not vote.

11:43 a.m. The Senate began a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #363 Charles R. Eskridge III to be U.S. District Judge for the Southern District of Texas.

11:41 a.m. The Senate invoked cloture on the nomination of Frank Volk to be U.S. District Judge for the Southern District of West Virginia by a tally of 90-0.

11:08 a.m. The Senate is now voting on the motion to invoke cloture on Frank Volk to be District Judge for the Southern District of West Virginia.

10:47 a.m. Senator Durbin spoke about immigration and asked unanimous consent to adopt S. 2603. Senator Kennedy objected.

10:39 a.m. Senator Thune spoke about the Barrett nomination and the situation in Syria.

10:21 a.m. Minority Leader Schumer spoke about the impeachment inquiry. He spoke about the situation in Syria. He spoke about appropriations. He spoke about troubled pension plans.

10:07 a.m. On the occasion of the Stanley Cup’s exhibition in the Capitol, Senator Blunt paid tribute to St. Louis sports teams, including hockey’s championship-winning Blues and baseball’s Cardinals.

9:48 a.m. Senator Cornyn spoke about impeachment.

9:38 p.m. Majority Leader McConnell spoke about nominations an about the House impeachment inquiry.

9:32 a.m. Senator Toomey paid tribute to Americans of the Sikh religion and to the visiting chaplain, Gianni Sukhvinder.

*****

The Senate will convene at 9:30 a.m. and will resume consideration of Barbara Barrett’s nomination to be secretary of the Air Force, post-cloture.

At 11 a.m., the Senate will begin these nomination votes:

1. Motion to invoke cloture on Frank Volk, to be District Judge Southern District of West Virginia
2. Motion to invoke cloture on Charles Eskridge, to be District Judge of Southern District of Texas
3. Motion to invoke cloture on David Novak, to be District Judge of Eastern District of Virginia
4. Motion to invoke cloture on Rachel Kovner, to be District Judge of Eastern District of New York

The Senate will recess from 12:30 p.m. until 2:15 p.m. for the weekly caucus meetings.

At 4:15 p.m., the Senate will begin these confirmation votes:

 Barrett, to be Secretary of the Air Force

1. Frank Volk, to be District Judge Southern District of West Virginia
2. Charles Eskridge, to be District Judge of Southern District of Texas
3. David Novak, to be District Judge of Eastern District of Virginia
4. Rachel Kovner, to be District Judge of Eastern District of New York

6:18 p.m. The Senate adjourned until 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 16, 2019. Following Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of Executive Calendar #422, Barbara Barrett, to be Secretary of the Air Force, post-cloture. At 11:00 a.m., the cloture motions on the Volk, Eskridge, Novak, and Kovner nominations will ripen and the Senate will vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the nominations.

The Senate will recess from 12:30 pm until 2:15 pm to allow for the weekly caucus meetings.

At 4:15 pm on Wednesday, the Senate will vote on confirmation of the Barrett, Volk, Eskridge, Novak, and Kovner nominations.

6:10 p.m. Senator Blackburn spoke about the music industry in Nashville.

6:08 p.m. Cloture was invoked on the Barrett nomination by a tally of 84-7. Senators Blumenthal, Duckworth, Gillibrand, Markey, Merkley, Smith, and Wyden voted no.

Senators not voting: Alexander, Bennet, Booker, Coons, Harris, Hirono, Klobuchar, Sanders and Warren.

5:30 p.m. The Senate is currently voting on the motion to invoke cloture on  Executive Calendar #422, the nomination of Barbara Barrett to be secretary of the Air Force.

5:00 p.m.Senator Whitehouse spoke on retirees in fear of losing their pensions and H.R. 397, the Rehabilitation of Multiemployer pension Act.

4:40 p.m. Senator Stabenow spoke on retirees in fear of losing their pensions and H.R. 397, the Rehabilitation of Multiemployer pension Act.

4:30 p.m. Senator Manchin spoke on retirees in fear of losing their pensions and H.R. 397, the Rehabilitation of Multiemployer pension Act.

4:25 p.m. Senator Brown spoke on retirees in fear of losing their pensions and H.R. 397, the Rehabilitation of Multiemployer pension Act.

4:07 p.m. Senator Grassley spoke about whistleblowers.

3:50 p.m. Minority Leader Schumer spoke about the Ukraine episode at the center of the impeachment inquiry. He said Democrats will use a special procedure to force votes on health care, taxes, and climate change.

He spoke about the situation in Syria.

3:30 p.m. Majority Leader McConnell spoke about the presidential  impeachment effort in the House. He spoke about the Senate agenda, including nominations, appropriations, and the U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade agreement.

He voiced “grave concern” about the situation in Syria.

He moved under Rule XIV to place on the calendar H.R. 2593, the continuing resolution on federal spending for fiscal year 2020.

3:07 p.m. Senator Tillis paid tribute to the visiting chaplain, Pastor Andrew Brunson of North Carolina.

3:02 p.m. Senator Grassley noted the anniversary of the U.S. Navy. He paid tribute to former Ambassador Ken Quinn for his fight against hunger.

***

The Senate will convene at 3 p.m., and will resume consideration of Executive Calendar #422,  the nomination of Barbara Barrett to be secretary of the Air Force.

At 5:30 p.m., the Senate will vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the Barrett nomination.

Cloture has also been filed on the following nominations:

1. Executive Calendar #359, Frank Volk to be a district court judge for the Southern District of West Virginia;

2. Executive Calendar #363, Charles Eskridge to be a district court judge for the Southern District of Texas;

3. Executive Calendar #328, David Novak to be a district court judge for the Eastern District of Virginia;

4. Executive Calendar #348, Rachel Kovner to be a district court judge for the Eastern District of New York.

The Senate convened at noon for a pro forma session. No business was conducted. Senator Hawley presided.

7:23 p.m. The Senate adjourned.

7:21 p.m. Senator Portman wrapped up for the evening.

6:48 p.m. Senator Portman spoke on retirement security.

6:35 p.m. Senators Scott of Florida and Menendez spoke on H.R. 549 and his amendment regarding Venezuela refugees; and objected to each others unanimous consent requests.

6:34 p.m. The Senate invoked cloture on the nomination of Eugene Scalia to be Secretary of Labor on a party line vote of 52-42.

6:11 p.m. Roll call vote began on cloture on the nomination of Eugene Scalia to be Secretary of Labor.

6:10 p.m. Cloture was invoked on the Hyten nomination, 73-21.

Senators in favor: 51 Republicans, 21 Democrats, 1 Independent: King.

Senators voting against: 20 Democrats: Baldwin, Blumenthal, Brown, Cantwell, Cardin, Casey, Duckworth, Gillibrand, Hirono, Klobuchar, Markey, Menendez, Merkley, Murray, Peters, Schumer, Stabenow, Udall, Van Hollen and Wyden; 1 Republican: Ernst.

Senators not voting: 4 Democrats: Bennet, Booker, Harris and Warren; 1 Republican: Rubio; 1 Independent: Sanders.

5:56 p.m. The cloture vote began on the nomination of Gen. John E. Hyten to be vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

5:54 p.m. The McConnell/Ernst on FMLA motion passed by a vote of 55 to 39. Yes votes included Democrats Jones, Manchin and Sinema and independent King. Not voting: Booker, Burr, Harris, Rubio, Sanders, Warren.

5:32 p.m. Roll call vote began on the Ernst (#336) motion to instruct regarding FMLA.

5:31 p.m. The McSally motion to instruct was agreed to 53-42. Republican voting against: Paul.  Democrats voting in favor: Jones and Sinema. Not voting: Booker, Harris, Rubio, Sanders, Warren.

5:13 p.m The Senate began a roll call vote on the McSally (related to repayment of military funds )motion to instruct (#335).

5:12 p.m The Senate agreed to the the Peters (on the hazardous chemicals known as PFAS) motion to instruct (#334) by voice vote.

5:10 p.m.  By a vote of 47 to 48,  the Senate did not agree to the Schatz motion regarding medical leave.

Republicans voting in favor: Capito, Collins, Murkowski, Portman. Not voting: Booker, Harris, Rubio, Sanders, Warren.

4:53 p.m. Vote began on the Schatz (on the Family and Medical Leave Act)  (#333) motion to instruct.

4:49 p.m. The Senate agreed to the Jones motion (#332) to instruct NDAA conferees on Widows Tax by a vote of 94 to 0. Not voting: Booker, Burr, Harris, Rubio, Sanders, Warren.

4:34 p.m. A roll call vote began on the motion to instruct the defense authorization conferees #332 from Jones (on a widows tax).

4:31 p.m. The Senate agreed to the Cotton/Schumer motion (#331) to instruct NDAA conferees on Huawei, 91-4. Voting no: Crapo, Enzi, Paul and Risch.

4:02 p.m. A roll call vote began on the motion to instruct the defense authorization conferees #331 from Senator Cotton-Schumer (relating to Huawei).

4:00 p.m. The Senate passed via a voice vote on the Van Hollen motion (#330) to instruct defense authorization conferees on foreign interference in our elections.

3:35 p.m. Senator Van Hollen spoke on two motions to instruct, the first regarding Huawei and the second on foreign interference in our elections.

3:32 p.m. Senator Gillibrand spoke on President Trump and Ukraine before discussing the Schatz motion to instruct regarding family and medical paid leave.

3:30 p.m. The Senate returned from recess.

2:47 p.m. The Senate recessed until 3:30 p.m. for a briefing on Iran.

2:35 p.m. Senator Menendez made a unanimous consent request to proceed to S. 2537-actions involving Ukraine should not be kept from the Senate.  Senator Risch objected.

2:27 p.m. Senator Menendez spoke about President Trump and impeachment.

2:15 p.m Senator Whitehouse gave his weekly climate change speech.

1:58 p.m. Senator Brown spoke on recent changes in overtime rules.

1:45 p.m. Senator Cotton spoke in favor of the Scalia nomination.

1:28 p.m. Senator Brown spoke about funding for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) and Minority Serving Institutions (MSI).

1:16 p.m. Senator Shaheen spoke on “dark money”, particularly in relation to surprise medical bill flyers in New Hampshire.

1:06 p.m. Senator Cardin spoke about funding diverted to pay for a wall on the southern border.

12:54 p.m. Senator Alexander achieved UC that the Senate recess from 2:30-3:30 p.m. for an all Senators briefing.  He then spoke about the Clinton 12, the country music documentary and later on the nomination of Eugene Scalia.

12:54 p.m. The motion to instruct the defense authorization resolutions were introduced by number , S. Res 330 – S Res 336; see below for links.

12:53 p.m. The Senate agreed to S.J. Res. 54, to terminate the president’s emergency declaration regarding a border wall, 54-41.

Voting in favor 42 Democrats, 11 Republicans: Alexander, Blunt, Collins, Lee, Moran, Murkowski, Paul, Portman, Romney, Toomey and Wicker; 1 Independent: King.

Senators voting against: 41 Republicans.

Senators not voting: 3 Democrats: Booker,Harris and Warren; 1 Republican: Rubio; 1 Independent: Sanders.

12:17 p.m. The Senate began a roll call vote on S.J. Res. 54, to terminate the president’s emergency declaration regarding a border wall.

12:13 p.m. Senator Collins spoke supporting S.J. Res. 54, to terminate the president’s emergency declaration regarding a border wall.

11:54 a.m. Senator Warner spoke on election security and on protections for individuals with pre-existing conditions.

11:31 a.m. Senator Cornyn spoke about Speaker Pelosi’s movement on impeachment and on the Debbie Smith Act.

11:16 a.m. Senator Leahy spoke about border wall funding.

10:58 a.m. Senator Blackburn spoke about a recent telephone town hall.

10:40 a.m. Minority Leader Schumer spoke about the House impeachment inquiry. He spoke about the resolution on the border wall emergency declaration.

10:35 a.m. Senator Thune spoke about the defense authorization bill.

10:09 a.m. Majority Leader McConnell spoke about the House impeachment inquiry. He spoke about the resolution on the border wall emergency declaration. He filed cloture on the nomination of Eugene Scalia nomination to be secretary of the Labor Department.

10:02 a.m. Senator Grassley spoke about the U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade agreement.

*****

The Senate will convene at 10 a.m. and will consider S.J. Res. 54, to terminate the president’s emergency declaration regarding a border wall.

At 12:15 p.m., the Senate will vote on passage of the measure to termi

nate the emergency declaration.

The Senate will then resume consideration of these motions concerning the 2020 defense authorization:

• Van Hollen (on Russia) Van Hollen MTI;
• Senator Cotton-Schumer (relating to Huawei);
• Jones (on a widows tax);
• Schatz (on the Family and Medical Leave Act);
• Peters (on the hazardous chemicals known as PFAS)
• McSally (on the “backfill” for medical providers)
• McConnell or his designee (on the FMLA)

At 3:45 p.m., the Senate will begin votes on passage of these resolutions, with minutes of debate equally divided prior to each vote.

4:24 p.m. The Senate adjourned until 3:00 p.m. on Monday, September 23, 2019. Following Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of Executive Calendar #417, Brian McGuire, of New York, to be a Deputy Under Secretary of the Treasury. At 5:30 p.m., the Senate will vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the McGuire nomination.

4:19 p.m. ML McConnell began wrap up:

• Adopted S.Res.205, expressing gratitude of the Senate for the people who operate or support diaper banks and diaper distribution programs in their local communities.
• Passed by voice vote H.R.1058, to reauthorize certain provisions of the Public Health Service Act relating to autism.
• Adopted S.Res.319, National Hispanic-Serving Institutions Week.
• Adopted S.Res.320, National Forensic Science Week.
• Adopted S.Res.321, National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.
• Began the Rule 14 process to place on the Legislative Calendar of Business, H.R.2486, Fostering Undergraduate Talent by Unlocking Resources for Education Act

3:35 p.m. Senator Manchin spoke about National Childhood Cancer Month.

3:12 p.m. Senator Sullivan spoke about the Alaskan of the week, Elena Vic.

2:24 p.m. Senator Brown spoke on the autoworkers’ strike.

1:49 p.m. Senator Murray spoke in favor of H.R. 2486.

1:44 p.m. Senator Jones recognized the important of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU).  He then asked unanimous consent to take up and pass H.R. 2486.  Senator Alexander objected.

12:59 p.m. Senator Lee asked u.c to call up and pass H.R. 1044, Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act with the Lee amendment #939. Senator Perdue objected.

12:55 p.m. ML McConnell filed cloture on Executive Calendar #292 David Fabian Black to be Deputy Commissioner of Social Security for a term expiring January 19, 2025.

12:54 p.m. ML McConnell filed cloture on Executive Calendar #367 Daniel Habib Jorjani to be Solicitor of the Department of the Interior.

12:50 p.m. ML McConnell announced at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, September 19th, the Senate will proceed to a vote on the motion to invoke cloture on Brian McGuire to be a Deputy Under Secretary of the Treasury. ML McConnell filed cloture on Executive Calendar #176 Joseph Cella to be Ambassador of U.S. to the Republic of Fiji, & serve concurrently and without additional compensation as Ambassador to the Republic of Kiribati, the Republic of Nauru, the Kingdom of Tonga, & Tuvalu.

12:36 p.m. Senator Durbin spoke about legislation on gun safety and on the Dream Act.

12:26 p.m. Senator Cardin spoke about legislation on gun safety.

11:32 a.m. Senator Cornyn spoke about healthcare and appropriations.

10:55 a.m. Minority Leader Schumer spoke the border wall, military spending and appropriations. He spoke about trade and farm supports.

10:42 a.m. Senator Duckworth spoke about President Trump’s remarks about the attack on Saudi oil facilities.

10:32 a.m. Senator Thune spoke about judicial nominations.

10:04 a.m. Majority Leader McConnell spoke about the defense bill. He spoke about appropriations.

10:02 a.m. Senator Grassley spoke about yesterday’s cloture vote on the defense authorization.

*****

The Senate will convene at 10 a.m. and will resume consideration of the cloture motion on the nomination of Brian McGuire to be deputy under secretary of the Treasury.

A cloture vote on McGuire is expected at noon.

If cloture is invoked, the confirmation vote is expected at 1:45 p.m.