The Senate adjourned at 5:48 p.m.  and will convene for a pro forma session only at 1 p.m. Monday, November 4. The Senate will next meet in legislative session at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 5., and will resume consideration of the nomination of David Tapp to the U.S. Court of Federal Claims.

The Senate will recess for caucus lunches from 12:30 p.m. to 2:15 p.m., when the pending cloture motions on Tapp and other will ripen.

5:17 p.m. Senator Murkowski paid tribute to the late Senator Hagan.

5:11 p.m. During wrap-up, Senator McConnell secured consent for confirmation, en bloc, of Executive Calendar #468 through #477, all nominations to the armed forces.

By consent, the Senate passed S. Res. 399, 400 and 401.

By voice votes, the Senate passed S.Res. 402, honoring Toni Morrison, and S. Res. 403, on National Farm to School month.

By consent, the Senate passed H.R. 2423, to direct the Treasury to mint coins to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the ratification  the Nineteenth Amendment (women’s suffrage).

By consent, the Senate passed S. Res. 345, on National Cybersecurity Awareness month.

4:35 p.m. Senator Cornyn spoke about government funding.

4:26 p.m. Senator Rosen spoke against the Van Dyke nomination.

4:15 p.m. Senator Cortez Masto spoke against the Van Dyke nomination.

3:55 p.m. Senator Stabenow paid tribute former Senator Kay Hagan.

3:34 p.m. Senator Sullivan spoke on defense appropriations.

2:45 p.m. Senator Scott (FL) spoke about health care and pre-existing conditions.

2:40 p.m. Senator Cardin paid tribute to former Senator Kay Hagan.

2:39 p.m. Senator Cotton spoke about special operations forces. S. Res. 394-honoring the members military and intelligence community that carried out the mission that killed Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi was passed by unanimous consent.

2:32 p.m. Senator McConnell filed cloture on the following nominations:

• David Austin Tapp to be a Judge for the US. Court of Federal Claims
• Danielle Hunsaker to be US Circuit Judge for the Ninth Circuit
• William Joseph Nardini to be US Circuit Judge for the Second District
• Lee Phillip Rudofsky to be US District Judge for the Eastern District of Arkansas
• Jennifer Philpott Wilson to be US District Judge for the Middle District of PA

2:30 p.m. Cloture was not invoked on the motion to proceed to HR 2740, 51-41.

Democrats voting in favor: Jones and Peters.

Republicans voting against: McConnell (changed his vote to enter a motion to reconsider) and Paul.

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

1:43 p.m. Roll call vote began on cloture on the motion to proceed to H.R.2740, minibus appropriations I (defense/laborH/foreign ops/energy and water).

1:35 p.m. Senator Shelby spoke in favor of HR 2740.

1:27 p.m. Senator Leahy spoke in opposition to HR 2740.

1:15 p.m. Senator Perdue spoke in favor of HR 2740.

1:02 p.m Senator Lee spoke on immigration.

1:01 p.m. The Senate resumed consideration of the motion to proceed to H.R.2740, minibus appropriations I (defense/laborH/foreign ops/energy and water)

1:00 p.m. H.R.3055. was agreed to 84-9.

Senators voting against: 9 Republicans: Blackburn, Braun, Cruz, Johnson, Lee, Paul, Sasse, Scott of Florida and Toomey. 

Senators not voting: 5 Democrats: Bennet, Booker, Harris, Klobuchar and Warren; 1 Republican: Isakson; 1 Independent: Sanders

12:33 p.m. Roll call vote began on passage of H.R.3055.

12:31 p.m. Senator Leahy spoke in favor of H.R.3055.

12:30 p.m. The Jones amendment #1141, as modified (Rostenkowski Test) was adopted 82-11.

Senators voting against: 11 Republicans: Blackburn, Braun, Cruz, Lankford, Lee, Paul, Perdue, Romney, Sasse, Scott of Florida and Toomey.

Senators not voting: 5 Democrats: Bennet, Booker, Harris, Klobuchar and Warren; 1 Republican: Isakson; 1 Independent: Sanders

12:11 p.m. Roll call  vote began on the Jones-McSally amendment amendment #1141, as modified (Rostenkowski Test).

12:09 p.m. Senators Jones and McSally spoke in favor of their amendment.

12:08 p.m. The Lee amendment was not agreed to 29-64.

Senators voting in favor: 29 Republicans: Barrasso, Braun, Cassidy, Cornyn, Crapo, Cruz, Enzi, Ernst, Fischer, Grassley, Hawley, Inhofe, Johnson, Kennedy, Lankford, Lee, Moran, Paul, Risch, Romney, Rounds, Rubio, Sasse, Scott of Florida, Sullivan, Tillis, Thune, Toomey and Wicker.

Senators voting against: 40 Democrats, 23 Republicans, 1 Independent: King.

Senators not voting: 5 Democrats: Bennet, Booker, Harris, Klobuchar and Warren; 1 Republican: Isakson; 1 Independent: Sanders

11:31 a.m. The Senate began a roll call vote on adoption of Lee Amendment #1209 (LWCF).

11:23 a.m. Senator Lee spoke supporting his amendment.

11:20 a.m. Senator Reed spoke supporting the Jones amendment #1141.

11:16 a.m. Senator Udall paid tribute to former Senator Kay Hagan and spoke opposing the Lee amendment #1209.

11:08 a.m. Senator Shaheen paid tribute to former Senator Kay Hagan.

10:55 a.m. Senator Tester paid tribute to former Senator Kay Hagan, spoke on the cost of prescription drugs and on the Washington Nationals World Series win.

10:45 a.m. Senator Schumer spoke about appropriations, the impeachment inquiry, and pensions.

10:41 a.m. Senator McSally spoke about transit appropriations.

10:35 a.m. Senator Thune spoke about defense appropriations.

10:09 a.m. Majority Leader McConnell spoke about The Nationals, appropriations, impeachment, Turkey, as protests in the Middle East.

S.2755 was placed on the legislative calendar under the Rule 14 process.

The 45 amendments of the manager’s package to H.R. 3055 were adopted en bloc by unanimous consent.

10:02 a.m. Senator Grassley spoke about the prices of prescription drugs.

The Senate will convene at 10:00 a.m.

Following Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of H.R.3055, minibus appropriations II (cjs/thud/interior/ag).

7:40 p.m. The Senate adjourned and will reconvene October 31, 2019,  under the provisions of S.Res.390 and does so as a further mark of respect for the late Senator Kay Hagan.  Next votes will be at 11:30 a.m.  Following Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of H.R.3055, minibus appropriations II (cjs/thud/interior/ag).
At 11:30am, the Senate  conduct three votes: (1) Lee amendment #1209 (LWCF), (2) Jones amendment #1141 (Rostenkowski Test), and (3) passage of H.R.3055, as amended. A package of amendments (included below) will also be agreed to.
At 1:45pm, the Senate will vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to proceed to H.R.2740, minibus appropriations I (defense/laborH/foreign ops/energy and water).

++

The following bills were adopted during wrap up:

Adopted S.Res.377: Nuclear Weapons Program Workers.

Adopted S.Res.389: National Dyslexia Awareness Month.

Adopted S.Res.390: honoring the life, accomplishments, and legacy of Senator Kay Hagan.

Completed the Rule 14 process to place H.R.4334, Dignity in Aging Act of 2019, on the Legislative Calendar of Business.

Began the Rule 14 process to place S.2755, to require a report on the plan to secure the enduring defeat of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, on the Legislative Calendar of Business.

++

7:26 p.m. Senator Collins offered an Managers package amendment, 45 amendments, on the H.R. 3055 (CJS, Ag, Interior and THUD Appropriations):

Tester #953 (Ag Research)

               Smith #1023 (Rental Assistance)

               Hirono #1037 (Orchids)

               Brown #1088 (1890 Institutions) as modified

               Baldwin #1099 (Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network)

               Murkowski #1121 (Ocean Ag Working Group)

               Thune #1133 (Tribal Students Program)

               Capito #1143 (Rural Decentralized Water Systems)

               Smith #1149 (Rural Housing Service)

               Rosen #1161 (Distance Learning and Telemedicine)

               McSally #1163 (Pet Shelter and Housing Assistance)

               Reed #1217 (Eastern Equine Encephalitis)

               Stabenow #1223 (Urban Ag and Innovation Production)

               Cornyn #1224 (Food Insecurity)

               Warner #951 (Ashanti Alert Act)

               Capito #1077 (Select USA)

               Cantwell #1094 (Supercomputer Capacity)

               Toomey #1129 (Report on Automotive Imports)

               Durbin #1146 (Opioids)

               Gardner #1150 (COPS)

               McSally #1234 (Animal Welfare)

               Sinema #1025 (Tribal Detention Facilities)

               Ernst #1079 (Contractor Payments)

               Ernst #1081 (OMB Report)

               Cornyn #1151 (Waste Water)

               Cardin #1159 (Holocaust Museum)

               Rosen #1160 (Lake Tahoe)

               Thune #1162 (Indian Tribes)

               Peters #1182 (Geographic Programs)

               Cornyn #1193 (Smithsonian Latino Center)

               Menendez #1199 (Partnership Wild and Scenic Rivers)

               Blunt #1211 (African American History Commission)

               McSally #1215 (Four Forest Restoration Initiative)

               Collins #1220 (Women’s History Initiative)

               Schumer #1227 (Outdoor Recreation)

               Hassan #956 (Rental Payments)

               Collins #1002 (Technical Correction)

               Shaheen #1005 (Emergency Medical Kits)

               Kaine #1010 (Remote Tower Pilot Program)

               Cortez Masto #1061 (Smart Cities)

               Cortez Masto #1062 (ITS Program Advisory Committee)

               Heinrich #1114 (HUD VASH)

               Shaheen #1130 (Manufactured Home Communities)

               Hoeven #1214 (Flight Schools-Vets)

               Portman #1235 (Family Unification Program HUD)

6:53 p.m. Senator Collins spoke in memory of Senator Kay Hagan.

5:45 p.m. Senator Whitehouse spoke on climate change.

5:30 p.m. Senator Fisher spoke on the Defense Appropriations bill.

5:21 p.m. Senator Kennedy spoke on South Sudan.

5:08 p.m. Senator Cramer spoke in praise of the United States Military.

5:02 p.m. Senator Blackburn spoke on the Boeing company’s safety standards.

4:44 p.m. Senators Romney and Manchin spoke on debt and trust funds such as social security.

4:30 p.m. Senator Shaheen spoke on the pending appropriations bill.

4:00 p.m. The Senate returned from the recess.  Senators Merkley and Udall spoke on health care, gun safety, climate change and the Democrats agenda and asked UC to take up and pass  S.949 regarding election access and ethics rules.  Senator Blunt objected.

3:02 p.m. The Senate recessed until 4:00 p.m.

2:53 p.m. Senator Merkley paid tribute to former Senator Hagan.

2:51 p.m. Senator Roberts achieved UC to have the Senate recess from 3:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m for a briefing on Syria.

1:53 p.m. Senators Ernst, Portman, Blunt, Capito, Boozman, Hoeven, Daines and Roberts spoke about opioid abuse.

1:33 p.m. Senator Durbin spoke about health care and immigration and asked u.c. to call up and pass S 2603, Resolving Extended Limbo for Immigrant Employees and Families Act. Senator Thune objected.

1:21 p.m. Senator Cornyn spoke about health care.

1:20 p.m. The Senate invoked cloture on the Shelby substitute amendment #948 by a tally of 88-5. Senators Blackburn, Cruz, Lee, Paul, and Scott (FL) voted no.

Senators not voting: 5 Democrats: Bennet, Booker, Harris, Klobuchar and Warren; 1 Republican: Cassidy; 1 Independent: Sanders.

12:55 p.m. The Senate is now voting on the Motion to Invoke Cloture on the Shelby substitute amendment #948 to H.R. 3055 (CJS, Ag, Interior and THUD Appropriations).

12:54 p.m. The Senate did not agree to S.J.Res. 52, the Section 1332 Waiver CRA by a tally of 43-52. Senator Collins joined Democrats and voted yes.

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

12:20 p.m. Roll call vote began on S.J. Res. 52, the Section 1332 Waiver CRA.

12:17 p.m. Senator Alexander spoke about health care.

12:11 p.m. Senator Warner spoke about health care.

11:52 a.m. Senator Murray paid tribute to former Senator Kay Hagan.

11:41 a.m. Senator Braun spoke about health care.

11:14 a.m. Senator Baldwin spoke about health care and asked unanimous consent that the Senate adopt  S.1556. Senator Alexander objected. Senator Baldwin then asked unanimous consent that the Senate adopt S.1905. Senator Alexander objected.

10:55 a.m. Senator Alexander spoke about the health cares law.

10:41 a.m., Senator Romney spoke about the Ukraine episode.

10:26 a.m. Minority Leader Schumer spoke about appropriations.

10:06 a.m. Majority Leader McConnell spoke about defense appropriations. He spoke about House impeachment rules. He spoke about the pending resolution against a state option under the health care law.

Under Rule XIV, Senator McConnell took steps to bring directly to the floor H.R.4335, an amendment to the Older Americans Act.

10:03 a.m. Senator Grassley saluted women who own businesses. He spoke about impeachment.

*****

The Senate will convene at 10:00 a.m.

Following Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of S.J.Res.52, providing for congressional disapproval of the rule submitted by the Secretaries of the Treasury and the Secretary of Health and Human Services relating to “State Relief and Empowerment Waivers”.

At 12:15 p.m.: Two roll call votes: 

1. Passage of S.J.Res.52.
2. Cloture on Shelby substitute amendment #948 (Senate texts of CJS, Ag, Interior, and THUD appropriations) to H.R.3055.

Majority Leader McConnell has also filed cloture on the underlying appropriations bill H.R.3055, and on the motion to proceed to H.R.2740, (Defense/Labor-HHS/Energy & Water/State, Foreign Ops appropriations).

6:45 p.m. The Senate stands adjourned.

6:15 p.m. Senator Casey spoke about open enrollment for insurance.

5:50 p.m. Senator Cassidy spoke on the rise of healthcare premiums under Obamacare.

5:41 p.m. Senator Perdue spoke about gun violence in schools.

5:40 p.m. Leader McConnell asked that debate time expire on S.J. Res 52 expire at 12:15 Wednesday, October 30 and the cloture motions filed Monday ripen following the disposition of S.J. Res 52.

when the Senate completes it’s business it adjourn until 10:00 am and resume S.J. Res under the previous order.

5:30 p.m. Senator Paul paid tribute to Jim Mehlman.

5:15 p.m.  Senator Durbin discussed preexisting conditions and insurance coverage.

4:09 p.m. Senator Reed spoke about S.J. Res. 52 and paid tribute to former Senator Kay Hagan.

3:57 p.m. Senator Gardner spoke about appropriations.

3:38 p.m. Senator Coons spoke about the impeachment inquiry and paid tribute to Sonny Sloan.

3:28 p.m. Senator Sinema spoke about S.J. Res. 52.

3:15 p.m. Senator Barrasso spoke against S.J. Res. 52.

2:57 p.m. Senators Manchin, Warner and Casey spoke about coal miners pensions.

2:43 p.m. Senator Inhofe spoke on the Defense Authorization.

2:38 p.m. Senator Warner thanked Senator Kennedy for his 5G remarks before calling up SJ Res 52, regarding state relief and empowerment waivers.

2:20 p.m. Senator Kennedy spoke on 5G technology and the sale of spectrum for that purpose.

2:15 p.m. The Senate returned from recess.

12:35 p.m. The Senate recessed until 2:15 p.m.

12:25 p.m. Senator Collins spoke about the cost of prescription drugs and aviation safety.

12:08 p.m. Senator Cornyn spoke about impeachment, the death of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, and the Affordable Prescriptions for Patients Act.

11:58 a.m. Senator Brown spoke about amendment #1088 to H.R. 3055.

11:42 a.m. Senator Van Hollen spoke on individuals testifying before the House on possible impeachment proceedings.

11:34 a.m. Senators Smith, Van Hollen, Kaine and Brown spoke on federal contractors affected by government shutdowns.

11:19 a.m. Senator Portman spoke on health care and appropriations; particularly infrastructure needs and finally, the Jobs Act.

11:10 a.m. Senator Thune spoke briefly about Kay Hagan and the appropriations process before turning to discuss health care.

10:50 a.m. Senator Collins spoke about appropriations.

10:25 p.m. Minority Leader Schumer spoke about appropriations. He spoke about electric automobiles and other matters related to climate change.

10:15 p.m. Senator Durbin spoke about the immigration status of a group of Venezuelans.

10:04 a.m. Majority Leader McConnell spoke about defense appropriations. He spoke about medical insurance at the state level. He spoke about agriculture.

10:03 a.m. Senator Grassley spoke about prescription drug legislation.

***

The Senate will convene at 10:00 a.m.

Following Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of H.R.3055, appropriations minibus II.

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

Majority Leader McConnell filed cloture on the following:

• Shelby substitute amendment #948 (CJS/Ag/Interior/THUD appropriations)
• on the underlying bill
• on the motion to proceed to H.R.2740, (Defense/LaborH/Energy and Water/State, Foreign Ops appropriations).

• If no agreement is reached, under the rule, the cloture vote on Shelby substitute amendment #948 would occur one hour after the Senate convenes on Wednesday.

5:32 p.m. Roll call vote began on the Cortez Masto amendment.

5:25 p.m. Senator Jones spoke on his amendment #1067 (loan relending program of titles for heirs’ property owners).

5:13 p.m. Senator Paul spoke on his amendment #1019 (2 percent cut).

5:04 p.m. Senators Cortez Masto and Lankford spoke on amendment #961 regarding food distribution programs.

4:36 p.m. Senator Grassley spoke on Hillary Clintons emails.

3:55 p.m. Minority Leader Schumer spoke in memory of Senator Hagen. He spoke about al-Baghdadi and the threat of the Islamic State. He spoke about impeachment. He spoke about medical insurance coverage. He spoke about climate change and automobile emissions.

3:07 p.m. Majority Leader McConnell spoke in memory of Senator Hagen. He spoke about the death of the Islamic State leader, al-Baghdadi. He spoke about impeachment. He spoke about a cloture vote later this week on military appropriations./

3:02 p.m. Senator Grassley spoke about prescription drugs.

The Senate resumed consideration of H.R. 3055, the appropriations measure for the Departments of Commerce and Justice and related agencies.

***

The Senate will convene at 3:00 p.m.

Following Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of H.R. 3055, appropriations minibus II.

At 5:30 p.m. – up to 3 roll call votes:

1. Cortez Masto Amendment 961 (food distribution programs)

2. Paul Amendment 1019 (2 percent cut)

3. Jones Amendment 1067 (loan relending program of titles for heirs’ property owners)

5:00 p.m. The Senate adjourned and will reconvene on Monday, October 28 at 3:00 p.m. They will resume consideration of H.R. 3055 with votes on  the Cortez Masto amendment (food distribution programs), the Paul amendment (reduce appropriations by 2 percent)and the Jones amendment (farmland relending program) to occur at 5:30 p.m.

During wrap-up:

• Passed Calendar #198, S.2107: Protecting America’s Food & Agriculture Act.
• Passed Calendar #197, S.2065, with committee-reported substitute: Deepfake Report Act.
• Adopted S.Res.362: designating the week beginning on October 13, 2019, as “National Wildlife Refuge Week”
• Adopted S.Res.379: National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month.
• Adopted S.Res.380: National Retirement Security Week.
• Adopted S.Res.381: Day of the Deployed.
• Adopted S.Res.382: National Principals Month.
• Adopted S.Res.383: Lights on Afterschool.
• Adopted S.Res.384: Legal Counsel.

4:13 p.m. Senator Kaine spoke about Syria.

3:42 p.m. Senator Carper spoke about Syria.

3:00 p.m. Senator Van Hollen asked unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to H.R. 549 (Temporary Protected Status) and that his amendment be agreed to. Senator Scott objected.

2:59 p.m. Senator Scott asked unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to H.R. 549 (Temporary Protected Status) and that his amendment be agreed to. Senator Van Hollen objected.

2:57 p.m. Senator Scott (FL) spoke about Venezuela.

2:46 p.m. Senator Manchin paid tribute to Capt. Charles T. Jones.

2:36 p.m. Senator Van Hollen spoke about the FUTURE Act and asked unanimous consent to adopt H.R. 2486. Senator Alexander objected.

2:36 p.m. The Walker nomination was confirmed on a party line vote of 50-41.

1:36 p.m. Roll call vote began on confirmation of the Walker nomination.

1:22 p.m. Senator Blumenthal spoke on election interference and asked UC to take up and pass S. 1247, Senator Paul objected.

1:06 p.m. Senator Warner spoke on the situation in Syria and asked UC to take up and pass S. 2625, Senator Paul objected.

12:39 p.m. Senator Cornyn spoke on trade and the USMCA.

12:38 p.m. Cloture was invoked on the Walker nomination on a party line tally of 50-39.

Senators not voting: 7 Democrats: Booker, Carper, Coons, Harris, Kaine, Whitehouse and Warren; 3 Republicans: Hyde Smith, Isakson and Moran; 1 Independent: Sanders.

12:00 p.m. The Senate returned and began a roll call vote on cloture on the nomination of Justin Walker to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Kentucky.

10:37 a.m. The Senate stands in recess until 12:00 noon.

10:21 a.m. Senator Schumer spoke about the impeachment inquiry, Syria, and Judicial nominations.

10:02 a.m. Majority Leader McConnell spoke about the Walker nomination,  the opioid epidemic, and the impeachment inquiry.

The Senate will convene at 10:00 a.m.

Following Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of the nomination of Justin Walker to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Kentucky.

The Senate will recess from 10:30 a.m. until 12:00 noon to allow for the Lying in State Honoring Rep. Elijah Cummings.

At 12:00 noon, the Senate will vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the Walker nomination.

At 1:45 p.m., if cloture is invoked, the Senate will vote on confirmation of the Walker nomination.

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).

6:19 p.m. The Senate adjourned, next votes to occur at Noon on Tuesday, October 22nd on:

1. On the resolution of ratification for Executive Calendar #5, Treaty Document #116-1,  Protocol to the North Atlantic Treaty of 1949 on the Accession of the Republic of North Macedonia
2.  Motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #441, Andrew P. Bremberg, of Virginia, to be Representative of the United States of America to the Office of the United Nations and Other International Organizations in Geneva. If cloture is invoked on the Bremberg nomination, a vote is expected to occur early afternoon Tuesday.

6:18 p.m. Senator Hoeven wrapped up for the evening. Senate passed the following by unanimous consent:

Agreed to S.Con.Res.27, providing for the use of the catafalque situated in the Exhibition Hall of the Capitol Visitors’ Center.

Adopted S.Res.368, Legal counsel

Passed Calendar #200, H.R.150, Grant Reporting Efficiency and Agreements Transparency Act of 2019

Completed the Rule 14 process to place S.2644 (Turkey sanctions) on the Legislative Calendar of Business

6:17 p.m. Cloture was invoked on Executive Calendar #5, regarding the accession of Macedonia to NATO, 8x-2.

Senators voting against: 2 Republicans: Lee and Paul.

Senators not voting: 9 Democrats: Bennet, Booker, Harris, Hassan, Klobuchar, Schatz, Stabenow, Warren and Whitehouse; 4 Republicans: Isakson, Kennedy, Murkowski and Toomey; 1 Independent: Sanders.

5:28 p.m. Roll call vote began on cloture on Executive Calendar #5, regarding the accession of Macedonia to NATO.

5:18 p.m. Senator Moran spoke about the appropriation process.

5:05 p.m. Senator Casey spoke about impeachment.

4:34 p.m. Democratic Leader Schumer spoke about the appropriations process, the G-7 Summit, and the situation in Syria.

3:48 p.m. Senator Murphy spoke about healthcare.

3:21 p.m. Majority Leader McConnell spoke about the impeachment inquiry and the USMCA. S.2644 had it’s 2nd reading to place it on the Legislative Calendar.

3:20 p.m. S.Con. Res. 27, Providing for the use of the catafalque situated in Exhibition Hall of the Capitol Visitors’ Center, was adopted by unanimous consent.

3:03 p.m. Senator Grassley spoke The Whisteblowers Program Improvement Act.

The Senate will convene at 3:00 p.m.

Following Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of Executive Calendar #5, regarding the accession of Macedonia to NATO.

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

Majority Leader McConnell has also filed cloture on the following:

1.       Executive Calendar #441, the nomination of Andrew Bremberg to the Office of the United Nations and Other International Organizations in Geneva.

2.       Motion to proceed to the vehicle for the Senate’s “domestic minibus”, H.R.3055. The House bill is Commerce, Justice, Science, Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, Interior, Environment, Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Act, 2020.

3.       Motion to proceed to the vehicle for the “Defense minibus”, H.R.2740. The House bill is the  Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, Defense, State, Foreign Operations, and Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, 2020.

Republican Senator Collins voted in favor.

Democrats voting against: Senators Jones, Manchin and Sinema.

Senators not voting: 3 Democrats: Booker, Harris, and Klobuchar; 2 Republicans: Alexander and Isakson; 1 Independent: Sanders.

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