7:10 p.m. The Senate adjourned until Saturday, December 19, 2020. No votes are scheduled.

The Senate passed the following bills in wrap up by unanimous consent: H.R. 6237, regarding Indian healthcare; S. 4079, regarding Seminole Indians; H.R. 5023, naming a V.A. outpost in Youngstown, OH; S. 2174, regarding “Jennifer’s law”; S. Con Res 52 (as Amended); S. 3252, regarding FEMA.

6:59 p.m. The Senate passes a two day Continuing Resolution to fund the government through Sunday, December 20, 2020.

6:49 p.m. No votes have been scheduled but remain possible.

The Senate confirmed by voice vote: Charles A. Stones to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation.

Senators Roberts, Portman and Bennet spoke on the floor.

4:23 pm. No votes have been scheduled yet but remain possible. Senators Stabenow, Sanders, Schumer and Johnson all spoke on Covid relief and stimulus checks.

2:35 p.m. No votes have been scheduled.

Senators Grassley, McConnell, Inhofe, Hawley, Johnson, Tillis, Durbin, Blumenthal, Menendez, Scott, FL, Cornyn and Cruz spoke on the floor during todays session.

10:28 a.m. Senator Inhofe spoke about the significance of December 19th, including it being his 61st wedding anniversary.

10:04 a.m. Majority Leader McConnell spoke about the covid-19 negotiations and paid tribute to departing staffer Phil Maxon.

10:01 a.m. Senator Grassley spoke about a Congressional race in Iowa.

The Senate convened at 10:00 a.m. and resumed consideration of the nomination of Fernando Aenlle-Rocha to be US District Judge for the Central District of California.

No votes are scheduled at this time.

Cloture has been filed on the below nominations, absent any time agreements they will ripen one hour after the Senate convenes on Saturday, December 19th.

 Executive Calendar #895, Thompson Michael Dietz, of New Jersey, to be a Judge of the United States Court of Federal Claims

2. Executive Calendar #712, John Chase Johnson, of Oklahoma, to be Inspector General, Federal Communications Commission.

3. Executive Calendar #904, Eric J. Soskin, of Virginia, to be Inspector General, Department of Transportation

4. Executive Calendar #757, Beth Harwell, of Tennessee, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Tennessee Valley Authority

5. Executive Calendar #758, Brian Noland, of Tennessee, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Tennessee Valley Authority

6. Executive Calendar #836, Charles A. Stones, of Kansas, to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation

7. Executive Calendar #591, Fernando L. Aenlle-Rocha, of California, to be United States District Judge for the Central District of California

7:02 p.m. The Senate stands adjourned until 10:00 a.m. on Friday, December 18th. Following Leader remarks the Senate will be in Executive session and resume consideration of the Fernando L. Aenlle-Rocha nomination.

6:51 p.m. Senator Braun began wrap up.

• H.R. 2610, Fraud and Scam Reduction Act with the Wicker substitute amendment. Passed as amended by voice vote.
• S. 481, Nicholas and Zachary Burt Memorial Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Act of 2019 with the Klobuchar amendment was passed by unanimous consent.
• S. 3248, United States Anti-Doping Agency Reauthorization Act with the Moran substitute amendment was passed by unanimous consent.
• H.R. 6435, Combating Pandemic Scams Act. Passed by unanimous consent.
• H.R. 2468, School-Based Allergies and Asthma Management Program Act. Passed by voice vote.
• S. 1681, Advancing Education on Biosimilars Act of 2019 with the Alexander substitute amendment was passed by unanimous consent.
• S.Res. 805, providing for staff transition for a Senator if the results of the election for an additional term of office of the Senator have not been certified. Passed by unanimous consent.
• H.R. 6192, 1921 Silver Dollar Coin Anniversary Act. Passed by unanimous consent.
• H.R. 1923, Circulating Collectible Coin Redesign Act with the Cortez Masto amendment. Passed by unanimous consent.
• En bloc consideration of post office naming bills. Passed by unanimous consent.
• H.R. 6016, To designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 14955 West Bell Road in Surprise, Arizona, as the “Marc Lee Memorial Post Office Building”. Passed by unanimous consent.

6:49 p.m. Senator Heinrich asked unanimous consent to concur in the House amendment and pass S. 212, Indian Community Economic Enhancement Act. Passed by voice vote.

6:47 p.m. Senator Heinrich asked unanimous consent to call up and pass S 2165, Safeguard Tribal Objects of Patrimony Act with a Heinrich amendment. The bill as amended was passed by voice vote.

5:31 p.m. Senator Cornyn spoke honoring departing Texas members Reps. Thornberry, Hurd, Conaway, Marchant, Flores and Olson.

5:16 p.m. Senator Kennedy spoke on suicide and on the Improving Mental Health Access for Students Act. Senator Kennedy asked unanimous consent to call up and pass, S. 1782, Improving Mental Health Access for Students Act. The bill was passed by voice vote.

5:15 p.m. ML McConnell filed cloture on Executive Calendar #591 Fernando L. Aenlle-Rocha to be United States District Judge for the Central District of California.

5:14 p.m. ML McConnell filed cloture on Executive Calendar #836 Charles A. Stones to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation.

5:13 p.m. ML McConnell filed cloture on Executive Calendar #758 Brian Noland to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Tennessee Valley Authority for a term expiring May 18, 2024.

5:12 p.m. ML McConnell filed cloture on Executive Calendar #757 Beth Harwell to be a Member of the Board of Directors of the Tennessee Valley Authority for a term expiring May 18, 2024.

5:11 p.m. ML McConnell filed cloture on Executive Calendar #904 Eric J. Soskin to be Inspector General, Department of Transportation.

5:10 p.m. ML McConnell filed cloture on Executive Calendar #712 John Chase Johnson to be Inspector General, Federal Communications Commission.

5:06 p.m. ML McConnell filed cloture on Executive Calendar #895 Thompson Michael Dietz to be a Judge of the United States Court of Federal Claims for a term of fifteen years.

4:17 p.m. Senator Murkowski joined Senator Portman on Coronavirus funding.

3:49 p.m. Senator Portman spoke on Coronavirus funding.

3:48 p.m. The Somers nomination was confirmed 52-43.

Senators voting in favor: 48 Republicans, 4 Democrats: Kelly, Sinema, Tester and Whitehouse.

Senators voting against: 41 Democrats, 2 Independents: King and Sanders.

Senators not voting: 4 Republicans: Enzi, Fischer, Loeffler and Perdue; 1 Democrat: Harris.

2:47 p.m. The Senate is voting on confirmation of Executive Calendar #935, Zachary N. Somers to be a Judge of the United States Court of Federal Claims for a term of fifteen years.

2:41 p.m. Senator Peters spoke on Coronavirus funding.

2:35 p.m. Senator Lankford spoke on government shutdowns.

2:14 p.m. Senator Markey paid tribute to Senator Gardner.

1:43 p.m. Senator Brown spoke supporting frontline workers.

1:24 p.m. Senator Blackburn spoke about the need for additional Coronavirus relief and on issues with China and intellectual property rights.

12:48 p.m. Senator Grassley spoke on pension reform and gave staff tributes.

12:47 p.m. The Senate invoked cloture on the nomination of Zachary N. Somers to be a Judge of the United States Court of Federal Claims for a term of 15 years by a vote of 52-42.

Democrats voting in favor: Senators Kelly, Sinema, Tester and Whitehouse.

12:13 p.m. The Senate began a roll call vote on the motion to invoke cloture on Executive Calendar #935 Zachary N. Somers to be a Judge of the United States Court of Federal Claims for a term of fifteen years.

12:12 p.m. The Atchley nomination was confirmed, 54-41.

Senators voting in favor: 48 Republicans, 6 Democrats: Jones, Kelly, Manchin, Sinema, Tester and Whitehouse.

Senators voting against: 39 Democrats, 2 Independents: King and Sanders.

Senators not voting: 4 Republicans: Enzi, Fischer, Loeffler, Perdue, 1 Democrats: Harris.

11:28 a.m. Roll call vote began on confirmation of the nomination of
Edward Atchley to be a Judge for the Eastern District of Tennessee.

11:25 a.m. Democratic Leader Schumer spoke on appropriations and covid-19 negotiations.

11:03 a.m. Majority Leader McConnell spoke on appropriations and covid-19 negotiations.

10:30 a.m. Senator Thune spoke on covid-19 negotiations and paid tribute to departing staffer Johanna Jablonoski.

10:05 a.m. Senator Durbin responded to Senator Grassley, and spoke on Covid-19 relief negotiations, state and local assistance, liability and government funding.

10:02 a.m. Senator Grassley spoke about cabinet nominations for the incoming Biden administration.

10:00 a.m. The Senate convened.

***

The Senate will convene at 10:00 a.m. and resume consideration of the nomination of Edward Atchley to be a Judge for the Eastern District of Tennessee.

At 11:30am, the Senate will proceed to two roll call votes:

1. Confirmation of the Atchley nomination.

2. Cloture on the nomination of Zachary Somers to be a Judge for the United States Court of Federal Claims.

If cloture is invoked on the Somers nomination, a confirmation vote is expected later today.

6:25 p.m. The Senate adjourned and will reconvene at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 17. They will resume post-cloture consideration of the nomination of Edward Atchley to be U.S. District Judge for Eastern TN. No votes are scheduled at this time.

During wrap up:

• Confirmed #867-Anna Maria Ruzininski to be US Marshal for Eastern Wisconsin
• Confirmed #868-Gregory Scott Tabor to be US Marshal for Western Arkansas
• Confirmed PN2398-Irving Bailey to be a member of the Board of Directors of the US International Development Finance Corporation
• Confirmed PN 2063-Deven Parack to be a member of the Board of Directors of the US International Development Finance Corporation
• Concurred with House message to S. 1130-Amend public health service act to enhance awareness of SIDS
• Passed H.R. 8810-establish a national program re: landslides
• Concurred with House message S. 914-reauthorize the Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation System Act
• Passed H.R. 221-amend the State Department Basic Authorities Act to monitor and combat anti-Semitism
• Passed S. 5036-amend the overtime pay for protective services act to extend the Secret Service overtime pay exception through 2023
• Agreed to S. Res. 803-Designating S-124 as the US Senator Margaret Chase room and S-115 as the Barbara Mikulski room
• Passed S. 1387-tech grants in higher education
• Passed S. 3287-Manage the government wide financial plan
• Passed S. 2513-provide for joint reports by relevant federal agencies

6:09 p.m. Senator Moran spoke about veterans and health care.

5:44 p.m. Senator Inhofe spoke about the Western Sahara.

5:30 p.m. Senator Sullivan spoke about the Alaskan of the Week-Linda Behnken.

5:00 p.m. Senator Reed paid tribute to departing Senators Udall, Jones, Alexander, Roberts, Gardener and Harris.

4:52 p.m. Senator Hawley spoke about Covid relief.

4:30 p.m. Senators Menendez and Booker spoke about the Daniel Underall Judicial Security and Privacy Act. Senator Menendez asked unanimous consent to pass the bill. Senator Paul objected and asked that his amendment be included. Senator Menendez objected.

3:56 p.m. By a vote of 54-41, cloture was invoked on the nomination of Edward Atchley to be U.S. District Judge for Eastern TN. Dems voting aye: Senators Jones, Kelly, Manchin, Sinema, Tester and Whitehouse. Not voting: Enzi, Fischer, Harris, Loeffler, and Perdue.

3:26 p.m. By a vote of 56-39, the nomination of Joseph Dawson to be US District Judge for SC was confirmed.

2:18 p.m. Senator Sanders spoke about Covid relief.

2:07 p.m. Senator Barrasso spoke about Covid relief.

1:46 p.m. Senator Boozman spoke about women veterans.

1:20 p.m. Senator Cornyn spoke about Covid relief.

1:00 p.m. Senator Grassley spoke about foreign influence in politics and asked unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to and pass S. 1762. Senator Menendez objected.

12:48 p.m. By a vote of 56-39 cloture was invoked on the nomination of Joseph Dawson to be a district judge for South Carolina. Not voting: Senators Enzi, Fischer, Harris, Loeffler and Perdue. Dems and Independent voting aye: Jones, Kelly, King, Manchin, Reed, Sinema, Tester, and Whitehouse.

12:11 p.m. By a vote of 48-47 the nomination of Katherine Crytzer was confirmed. Not voting: Senators Enzi, Fischer, Harris, Loeffler, and Perdue.

11:28 a.m. Senator Manchin spoke about the pandemic relief package.

11:01 a.m. Senator Wyden asked unanimous consent to proceed to S. 2828-the Mauer County empowerment act. Senator Barrasso objected. Senator Wyden spoke about the bill.

10:36 a.m. Senator Thune spoke about entrepreneurism and also about 5G technology.

10:26 a.m. Senator Schumer spoke about the relief package.

10:04 a.m. Senator McConnell spoke about the pandemic relief package and also paid tribute to Senator Roberts.

10:01 a.m. Senator Grassley spoke about county meetings.

10:00 a.m. The Senate convened.

The Senate will convene at 10:00 a.m. and resume consideration of the nomination of Katherine Crytzer to be a district judge for eastern Tennessee.

At 11:30 a.m. the Senate will proceed to two roll call votes:

1. Confirmation of the Crytzer nomination.
2. Cloture on the nomination of Joseph Dawson to be a district judge for South Carolina.

Majority Leader McConnell has also filed cloture on the following nominations:

1. Charles Atchley to be a district judge for eastern Tennessee.
2. Zachary Somers to be a Judge of the US Court of Federal Claims.

6:56 p.m. The Senate adjourned.

6:49 p.m. Senator Sasse wrapped up for the evening. Among the items passed in wrap-up: Confirmed: Julie Fisher to be Ambassador to Belarus and Jonathan Pratt to be Ambassador to Djibouti by voice vote. S Res 801 authorizing Senator Alexander to perform a concert in the Hart atrium; and S. 2054, giving the Congressional Gold Medal to the 4 Americans killed in Benghazi.

6:28 p.m. Senator Sasse spoke on a report from the Victims of Communism foundation on Chinese cotton and human rights and entered it into the record.

6:04 p.m. Cloture was invoked on the Crytzer nomination by a party line tally of 48-47. Senators Fischer, Harris, Loeffler, Perdue and Rubio were absent.

5:38 p.m. The Senate began a roll call vote on cloture on the nomination of Katherine Crytzer to be a district judge for eastern Tennessee.

5:37 p.m. The Kirsch nomination was confirmed, 51-44. Senators Kelly, Manchin and Sinema joined Republicans in favor. Senators Fischer, Harris, Loeffler, Perdue and Rubio were absent.

4:57 p.m. The Senate began a roll call vote on confirmation of
Thomas L. Kirsch II to be a judge on the Seventh U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.

4:28 p.m. Senator Casey spoke on the Coronavirus.

4:16 p.m. Senator Whitehouse spoke about climate change.

4:02 p.m. Senator Grassley spoke about sentencing disparities.

3:38 p.m. Senators Sullivan, Menendez and Whitehouse spoke supporting the Save Our Seas Act.

3:04 p.m. Senator Capito paid tribute to Henry “Hoppy” Shores.

2:34 p.m. Senators Boozman and Cotton spoke honoring fallen police officer Travis Wallace.

2:15 p.m. Senator Alexander spoke about departing Senators.

2:15 p.m. The Senate reconvened. Senator Alexander asked u.c.
that the Senate vote on confirmation of Thomas Kirsch to be US Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit at 5:00 p.m. and upon disposition of the Kirsch nomination the Senate will vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the nomination of Katherine Crytzer to be US District Judge for the District of South Carolina.

12:29 p.m. The Senate stands in recess until 2:15 p.m.

12:04 p.m. Senator Klobuchar paid tribute to departing Senators.

11:59 a.m. Senator Tillis paid Tribute to Officer Tyler Herndon.

11:31 a.m. Senator Wyden spoke on immigration.

11:16 p.m. Senator Cornyn spoke about Attorney General Barr, on the House hold up of the Jenna Quinn Law and paid tribute to Senator Gardner.

10:54 a.m. Senator Thune spoke on the Coronavirus vaccines and funding.

10:50 a.m. Democratic Leader Schumer spoke on the election results and on the Coronavirus.

10:36 a.m. Senator Durbin spoke about the the election results.

10:02 a.m. Majority Leader McConnell spoke about the Trump administration. He congratulated President-elect Biden.

10:02 a.m. Senator Grassley spoke about members of the armed services.

*****

The Senate will convene at 10 a.m. and will resume post-cloture consideration of the nomination of Thomas L. Kirsch II to be a judge on the Seventh U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.

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

• Roll call votes are possible during Tuesday’s session of the Senate. A Whip Alert will be sent if and when any votes are scheduled.

7:10 pm The Senate stands adjourned until December 15, 2020 at 10:00am.

6:15pm The cloture vote was agreed to by a roll call vote of 51-42. The Senate is now in post cloture debate on the nomination.

5:30 pm The Senate is currently voting on the motion to invoke cloture on the nomination of Thomas Kirsch to be US Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit 

5:00 pm Senator Blackburn spoke on the Kirsch nomination.

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

Following Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of the nomination of Thomas Kirsch to be US Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit.

At 5:30 p.m., the Senate will vote on cloture on the Kirsch nomination.

Cloture has also been filed on the following nomination:

Katherine Crytzer to be US District Judge for the District of South Carolina.

2:21 p.m. The Senate adjourned and will reconvene at 3:00 p.m. on Monday, December 14. They will resume consideration of the nomination of Thomas Kirsch, II, to be U.S. Circuit Judge for the Seventh Circuit. They will vote on cloture on the nomination at 5:30 p.m.

During wrap-up:

*Began the Rule 14 process to place on the Legislative Calendar of Business S.5014, Government Shutdown Prevention Act of 2020 (Paul).

*Concurred in the House amendment to S.461: to strengthen the capacity and competitiveness of historically Black colleges and universities through robust public-sector, private-sector, and community partnerships and engagement, and for other purposes.

*Passed H.R.4764 with Alexander substitute amendment: Timely ReAuthorization of Necessary Stem-cell Programs Lends Access to Needed Therapies Act of 2020.

1:39 p.m. The Senate passed H.R. 8900, the continuing resolution, by voice vote.

1:31 p.m. Senator McConnell asked unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to H.R. 8900, continuing resolution. Senator Sanders and then Senator Hawley both objected and spoke about why. Then they both withdrew their objection.

1:30 p.m. By a vote of 84-13, the Conference Report to accompany H.R. 6395, NDAA was agreed to.

12:30 p.m. The Senate began voting on final passage of the Conference Report to accompany H.R. 6395, NDAA.

12:05 p.m. Senator Cornyn spoke about Coronavirus relief.

11:38 a.m. Senator Murphy spoke about the 2020 election.

11:05 a.m.. The Senate invoked cloture on the conference report to accompany H.R. 6395 NDAA by a vote of 84-13. By unanimous consent, post cloture time will expire at 12:30 today. Voting nay: Senators Booker, Braun, Cotton, Cruz, Hawley, Kennedy, Lee, Markey, Merkley, Paul, Sanders, Warren, and Wyden

10:15 a.m. Minority Leader Schumer spoke about Covid relief.

10:11 a.m. Senator Inhofe spoke on NDAA.

9:45 a.m. During leader remarks, Majority Leader McConnell discussed the looming deadline of midnight tonight to fund the government and the need for a Covid relief package. McConnell also filed cloture on the nomination of Thomas Kirsch II, IND, to be U.S. Circuit Judge, 7th Circuit and Kathrine Crytzer, TN, to be U.S. District Judge. Eastern District.

9:30 a.m. Senator Grassley Spoke about a Cedar Rapids locale who will be on a mission to the moon.

The Senate will convene at 9:30 a.m. Following Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of the conference report to accompany H.R.6395, National Defense Authorization Act. (NDAA).

Under regular order, the Senate will vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the conference report at 10:30 a.m.

Additional roll call votes are possible during Friday’s session of the Senate.

7:09 p.m. The Senate stands adjourned until 9:30 a.m. on Friday, December 11, 2020.

Following Leader remarks, the Senate will resume consideration of the conference report to accompany H.R.6395, National Defense Authorization Act. Under regular order the Senate will vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the conference report at 10:30 a.m. Additional roll call votes are possible during Friday’s session of the Senate.

7:04 p.m. Senator Murkowski began wrap up. The following bills/resolutions were passed during wrap up:

• S. 2730, Drone Advisory Committee for the 21st Century Act. Passed by
  unanimous consent
• H.R. 7347, To designate the medical center of the Department of Veterans Affairs in Ann Arbor, Michigan, as the “Lieutenant Colonel Charles S. Kettles Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center” – passed by unanimous consent.
• H.R. 4983, To designate the Department of Veterans Affairs community-based outpatient clinic in Gilbert, Arizona, as the “Staff Sergeant Alexander W. Conrad Veterans Affairs Health Care Clinic” – passed by unanimous consent.
• S. 900, A bill to designate the community-based outpatient clinic of the Department of Veterans Affairs in Bozeman, Montana, as the “Travis W. Atkins Department of Veterans Affairs Clinic” (concurred in House amend) – passed by unanimous consent.
• H.R. 1925, To designate the Manhattan Campus of the New York Harbor Health Care System of the Department of Veterans Affairs as the “Margaret Cochran Corbin Campus of the New York Harbor Health Care System”. w/Gillibrand substitute amend – passed by unanimous consent.
• S. 633, “Six Triple Eight” Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2019 –
• passed by unanimous consent.
• S.Res. 799, Designating December 2020 as National Impaired Driving Prevention Month – passed by unanimous consent.

6:22 p.m. Senator Murkowski spoke on the National Museum of the American Latino and on the American Women’s History Museum.

6:14 p.m. Senator Collins spoke supporting the National Museum of the American Latino. Senator Collins asked unanimous consent to call up and pass S. 959, Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum Act. Senator Lee objected.

5:47 p.m. Senators Menendez and Cornyn spoke supporting the creation of a National Museum of the American Latino. Senator Menendez asked unanimous consent to call up and pass H.R. 2420,
National Museum of the American Latino Act. Senator Lee objected.

5:32 p.m. Senators Sanders and Hawley spoke on the need for direct payments.

5:05 p.m. Senator Moran paid tribute to Colonel Kevin Ryan.

4:55 p.m. Senator Blackburn spoke about Coronavirus funding and on rural healthcare.

4:50 p.m. Senator Young paid tribute to Sharon Pierce.

4:30 p.m. Senator Inhofe spoke against President Trump’s proclamation recognizing Moroccan sovereignty over the Western Sahara.

4:25 p.m. Senator Romney paid tribute to retiring Congressman Rob Bishop.

3:46 p.m. Senator Lee spoke on the appropriations process.

3:45 p.m. Senator Johnson asked unanimous consent to call up and pass S. 1877, a bill to establish procedures and consequences in the event of a failure to complete regular appropriations w/Braun substitute amendment. Senator Shelby objected to the request.

2:59 p.m. Senators Johnson, Scott of FL, Braun, Lee and Leahy spoke on fiscal responsibility and government funding.

2:30 p.m. Senator Cotton honored constituent Joe Morgan.

2:09 p.m. Senator Stabenow spoke on the need for additional Coronavirus relief.

1:45 p.m. Senator Enzi delivered his farewell address.

1:28 p.m. Senator Cornyn spoke on Coronavirus funding and paid tribute to Senator Roberts. Senator Cornyn asked u.c. to call up and pass:

• H.R. 1520, Purple Book Continuity Act of 2019 w/the Alexander amendment.
• S. 1342, Great Lakes Environmental Sensitivity Index Act and concur in the House amendment
• S. 310, Migratory Birds of the Americas Conservation Act with the Wicker/Cardin substitute amendment

1:22 p.m. Senator Hawley spoke about the Duck boat tragedy of 2018. Senator Hawley asked u.c. to call up and pass S. 1031, a bill to implement recommendations related to the safety of amphibious passenger vessels and for other purposes with the Hawley substitute amendment. The bill was passed by unanimous consent.

12:50 p.m. Senator Paul spoke about war powers relating to the NDAA.

12:23 p.m. Senator Sanders spoke on Coronavirus relief funding.

12:07 p.m. Senator Barrasso spoke on the NDAA and on the Coronavirus response.

11:54 a.m. Senator Inhofe spoke about the NDAA.

11:00 a.m. Senators Moran, Stabenow, Shelby, Thune and Sullivan paid tribute to Senator Roberts.

10:32 a.m. Senator Roberts gave his farewell speech.

10:22 a.m. Democratic Leader Schumer spoke on Covid-19 relief negotiations, the Presidential transition, and briefly paid tribute to Senator Roberts.

10:05 a.m. Majority Leader McConnell spoke about unemployment claims, Covid-19 relief negotiations, the defense authorization conference report, and paid tribute to Senator Gardner.

10:02 a.m. Senator Grassley spoke about Hunter Biden.

10:00 a.m. The Senate convened.

***

The Senate will convene at 10:00 a.m. and resume consideration of the Conference Report to accompany H.R.6395, NDAA.

Roll call votes are possible during today’s session of the Senate.

Cloture has been filed on the Conference Report.

7:01 p.m. The Senate adjourned and will reconvene at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 10. Following leader remarks they will resume consideration of the conference report to accompany H.R. 6395, NDAA. No votes scheduled at this time.

Passed during wrap-up:

H.R.7105, with Moran-Tester substitute amendment: Johnny Isakson and David P. Roe, M.D. Veterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act of 2020.

S.3418 with Peters substitute amendment: STORM Act.

S.2315: Whistleblower Act.

S.4996: Bankruptcy Administration Improvement Act.

6:36 p.m. Senator Reed spoke about the NDAA.

6:20 p.m. Senator Inhofe spoke about the administration’s successes.

5:58 p.m. Senator Whitehouse spoke about Donors Trust and about climate denial.

5:47 p.m. Senator Scott asked unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to S. 1151, Venezuelan Contracting Restriction Act. Senator Murphy objected.

5:47 p.m. Senator McConnell filed cloture on the conference report to H.R. 6395, NDAA.

5:45 p.m. By a vote of 47-49 the motion to discharge was not agreed to.

5:12 p.m. The Senate began voting on the motion to discharge S.J. Res. 78, a Resolution of Disapproval of the proposed foreign military sale to the UAE.

5:12 p.m. By a vote of 46-50 the motion to discharge S.J. Res. 77 was not agreed to.

4:30 p.m. The Senate began voting on the motion to discharge S.J. Res 77, a Resolution of Disapproval of the proposed foreign military sale to the UAE.

4:10 p.m. Senator Menendez spoke about the arms sales to the UAE.

3:56 p.m. Senator Paul spoke about the arms sales to the UAE.

3:48 p.m. Senator Brown paid tribute to Paul Sarbanes.

3:39 p.m. Senator Blunt spoke about the arms sales to the UAE.

3:31 p.m. Senator Scott (FL)spoke about Coronavirus relief.

3:11 p.m. Senators Alexander, Manchin, Leahy and Durbin paid tribute to Senator Jones.

3:10 p.m. Senator Tester paid tribute to Senator Jones.

3:08 p.m. Senator Shelby paid tribute to Senator Jones.

2:34 p.m. Senator Jones gave his farewell speech.

2:27 p.m. Senator Schumer paid tribute to Senator Doug Jones.

2:17 p.m. Senator Cotton spoke about NDAA.

2:02 p.m. Senator Kennedy paid tribute to a retiring Baton Rouge weather person.

1:49 p.m. Senator Shaheen spoke about Coronavirus relief.

1:35 p.m. Senator Murphy spoke about the resolutions regarding the arms sales to UAE.

12:43 p.m. By a vote of 50-46 the nomination of Sean Cooksey, member, FEC, was confirmed. Senator King in favor in an otherwise party line vote.

12:06 p.m. By a vote of 92-4 the nomination of Shana Broussard was confirmed.

11:35 a.m. By a vote of 49-47 the nomination of Allen Dickerson to the FEC was confirmed. Not voting: Senators Harris, Loeffler, Perdue and Rounds.

10:57 a.m. Senator Hawley spoke about the Cooksey nomination.

10:45 a.m. Senator Durbin spoke about Coronavirus relief.

10:40 a.m. S. 3451-improve the health and safety of Americans living with food allergies- with an amendment by Senator Scott was passed by unanimous consent.

10:30 a.m. Senator Thune spoke about Coronavirus relief.

10:06 a.m. Senator McConnell spoke about Coronavirus relief and also about Hong Kong.

10:01 a.m. Senator Grassley spoke about the Iowa International Guard.

The Senate convened at 10:00 a.m. and resume consideration of the nomination of Allen Dickerson to be a member of the Federal Elections Commission.

At 11:00 a.m. the Senate will proceed to three confirmation votes on the following nominations to the Federal Elections Commission:

1. Allen Dickerson

2. Shana Broussard

3. Sean Cooksey

Following these votes the Senate will proceed to up to four hours of debate on motions to discharge S.J Res 77 and S.J Res 78, providing for Congressional disapproval of  arm sales to the United Arab Emirates.

At approximately 4:30 p.m. the Senate will proceed to two roll call votes on the motions to discharge S. J Res 77 and 78.

745 p.m. The Senate adjourned.

7:38 p.m. Senator Portman wrapped up for the evening.

6:54 p.m. Senator Portman spoke on Covid-19 relief negotiations.

6:17 p.m. Senator Cardin, Van Hollen, Stabenow and Reed paid tribute to Senator Sarbanes.  They achieved passage of S Res 797 honoring Senator Sarbanes.

5:59 p.m. Senator Cornyn spoke on arms sales to UAE and negotiations on Covid relief legislation.

5:47 p.m. Senator Durbin paid tribute to former Senator Sarbanes.

5:19 p.m. Senator Manchin paid tribute to Cassie Johnson of the Charleston West Virginia police department who recently was killed while on duty.

5:12 p.m. Senators Inhofe and Sullivan spoke about the arms sale to UAE.

5:10 p.m. The Senate confirmed, the nomination of Nathan A. Simington to be a Member of the Federal Communications Commission for a term of five years from July 1, 2019 by a tally of 49-46.

4:45 p.m. The Senate began a vote on confirmation of Nathan A. Simington to be a Member of the Federal Communications Commission for a term of five years from July 1, 2019.

4:44 p.m. The Senate confirmed the nomination of Stephen Sidney Schwartz to be a Judge of the U.S. Court of Federal Claims for a term of fifteen years by a tally of 49-47. This was a party line vote.

Not voting: Senators Harris, Loeffler, Perdue and Rounds.

4:00 p.m. The Senate began a vote on confirmation of Executive Calendar #649 Stephen Sidney Schwartz to be a Judge of the U.S. Court of Federal Claims for a term of fifteen years.

3:48 p.m. Senator Blumenthal spoke against the Siminton nomination.

3:29 p.m. Senator Lankford spoke Coronavirus vaccine, on the paycheck protection act, and paid tribute to Senator Gardner.

3:09 p.m. Senator Cantwell spoke against the Simington nomination and on the NDAA.

2:47 p.m. Senator Blunt paid tribute to Senator Gardner.

2:41 p.m. Senator Collins paid tribute to Senator Gardner.

2:33 p.m. Senator Bennet paid tribute to Senator Gardner.

2:15 p.m. The Senate reconvened and Senator Gardner delivered his farewell address.

12:48 p.m. The Senate invoked cloture on the Simington nomination by a tally of 49-47. The Senate stands in recess until 2:15 p.m.

Senators not voting: Harris, Loeffler, Perdue and Rounds.

12:00 p.m. The Senate began a roll call on cloture on Executive Calendar #911 Nathan A. Simington to be a Member of the Federal Communications Commission for a term of five years from July 1, 2019.

11:59 a.m. Senator Caper paid tribute to Senator Udall.

11:58 a.m. Senator Leahy paid tribute to Senator Udall.

11:52 a.m. Senator Durbin paid tribute to Senator Udall.

11:49 a.m. Senator Cardin paid tribute to Senator Udall.

11:46 a.m. Senator Stabenow paid tribute to Senator Udall

11:40 a.m. Senator Merkley paid tribute to Senator Udall.

11:37 a.m. Senator Lee paid tribute to Senator Udall.

11:27 a.m. Senator Heinrich paid tribute to Senator Udall.

11:01 a.m. Senator Udall delivered his farewell address.

10:47 a.m. Democratic Leader Schumer spoke on the need for additional Coronavirus relief,  against the Simington nomination, and paid tribute to departing Senator Udall.

10:37 a.m. Senator Thune paid tribute to departing Senators Gardner and McSally.

10:17 a.m. Senator Enzi spoke.

10:06 a.m. Majority Leader McConnell spoke about an arms sale to the United Arab Emirates. He paid tribute to the departing Senator Enzi.

10:02 a.m. Senator Grassley spoke about former Senator Harkin.

***

The Senate will convene at 10:00 a.m. and resume consideration of the nomination Nathan Simington to be a Member of the Federal Communications Commission.

At approximately 11:00 a.m., Senator Udall will deliver his farewell address.

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

Following that vote, the Senate will recess until 2:15 p.m..

At 2:15 p.m., Senator Gardner will deliver his farewell address.

At 4:00 p.m., the Senate will have two roll call votes:
1. Confirmation of Stephen Schwartz to be a Judge of the United States Court of Federal Claims
2. Confirmation of the Simington nomination.

Cloture has also been filed on the following nominations:

1. Allen Dickerson to be a Member of the Federal Election Commission.

2. Shana Broussard to be a Member of the Federal Election Commission.

3.Sean Cooksey to be a Member of the Federal Election Commission.

6:43 p.m. The Senate stands adjourned until 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, December 8, 2020.

6:37 p.m.  Senator McConnell conducted wrap up and announce votes tomorrow, Tuesday December 8 at noon and 4:00 p.m.  The Senate passed the following bills by U.C.: S.Res 795; H.R. 4761; H.R. 5273.

6:21 p.m. Senator Jones gave a tribute to Caleb Watson, who served in the Navy and was shot on an attack in Pensacola, Florida on December 6, 2019.

6:14 p.m. The vote on the nomination of Stephen Schwartz to be a Judge for the United States Court of Federal Claims passed by a vote of 48-46.

5:08 p.m. Senator Blackburn spoke on the Chinese Communist party.

4:46 p.m. Senator Crapo spoke about National Forests.

4:34 p.m. Senator Cornyn spoke about COVID relief.

4:23 p.m. Senator Schumer paid tribute to the late Senator Sarbanes. He spoke about COVID relief.

4:05 p.m. Cloture was filed on these nominations: Allen Dickerson, Shana Broussard and Sean Cooksey with the Federal Election Commission.

3:57 p.m. Majority Leader McConnell spoke about appropriations, the defense authorization and COVID relief.

3:40 p.m. Senator Leahy spoke about COVID relief.

3:03 p.m. Senator Grassley spoke about Iowa State football.

***

The Senate will convene at 3:00 p.m. and resume consideration of the nomination of Stephen Schwartz to be a Judge for the United States Court of Federal Claims.

At 5:30 p.m., the Senate will proceed to a cloture vote on the Schwartz nomination.

Majority Leader McConnell has also filed cloture on the following nomination:

Nathan Simington to be a Member of the Federal Communications Commission.